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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements is true about the bonds in a water molecule?
A
The electrons are equally shared between the oxygen and hydrogen atoms.
B
The bonds are ionic, with complete transfer of electrons from hydrogen to oxygen.
C
The oxygen atom has a partial negative charge, and the hydrogen atoms have partial positive charges.
D
The hydrogen atoms have a net negative charge, and the oxygen atom has a net positive charge.
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1
Understand the nature of the bonds in a water molecule: Water (H₂O) is composed of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. The type of bond between these atoms is crucial to understanding the molecule's properties.
Identify the type of bond: In a water molecule, the bonds between the oxygen and hydrogen atoms are covalent bonds. This means that the atoms share electrons.
Consider the electronegativity of the atoms: Oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, meaning it has a stronger tendency to attract electrons. This causes the shared electrons to spend more time closer to the oxygen atom.
Determine the charge distribution: Because the electrons are more often near the oxygen atom, it acquires a partial negative charge (δ-), while the hydrogen atoms acquire partial positive charges (δ+). This results in a polar covalent bond.
Evaluate the given statements: Based on the understanding of polar covalent bonds and charge distribution, the statement 'The oxygen atom has a partial negative charge, and the hydrogen atoms have partial positive charges' is true.