How is hydrogen bonding among water molecules related to the structure of the water molecule?

The molecule of water is not a straight line of atoms. The two hydrogens are slightly to one side of the oxygen atoms (there are many great diagrams of this out there.) Basically, the oxygen and hydrogens share electrons (covalently bonded), but since the oxygen atom is much bigger, it ha the electrons by it for more of the time. This causes the oxygen end of the atom to have a partial negative charge, and the hydrogen end to have a partial positive charge.
If there are two water molecules, they will tend to line up so that opposite charges are facing: oxygen side will tend toward the hydrogen side of another water molecule. Remember: opposite charges attract; similar charges repel
This tendency forms what are called Hydrogen bonds, which give water its property of adhesion and cohesion, as well as surface tension.
Hope this helps! :)

Answered by kittymaniac | 2024-06-10

This is what I have in my jotter about that - some of it may help!
• fewer hydrogen bonds between the molecules • less regular structure of molecules • closer packing of molecules leading to reduced volume of empty space • increased density

Answered by hannahrickman | 2024-06-10

The structure of the water molecule, which includes a bent shape and polar covalent bonds, allows for hydrogen bonding. This occurs due to the unequal sharing of electrons, creating partial charges that facilitate attraction between molecules. These hydrogen bonds contribute to water's unique properties critical for life, such as cohesion and adhesion.
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Answered by kittymaniac | 2025-01-27