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Multiple Choice
What do cohesion, surface tension, and adhesion have in common with reference to water?
A
All are results of the structure of the hydrogen atom.
B
All are produced by covalent bonding.
C
All have to do with ionic interactions.
D
All are properties related to hydrogen bonding.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of hydrogen bonding: Hydrogen bonds are weak interactions that occur when a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to a more electronegative atom, like oxygen, is attracted to another electronegative atom.
Recognize that water molecules are polar: Each water molecule has a partial positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a partial negative charge on the oxygen atom, leading to hydrogen bonding between water molecules.
Cohesion in water: This is the attraction between water molecules due to hydrogen bonding, which allows water to stick to itself, contributing to phenomena like water droplets forming.
Surface tension in water: This is a result of cohesive forces at the surface of water, where water molecules are more tightly packed due to hydrogen bonding, creating a 'skin-like' surface.
Adhesion in water: This is the attraction between water molecules and other substances, which is also influenced by hydrogen bonding, allowing water to climb up plant roots and stems in a process called capillary action.