The hydrogen atoms of a water molecule are bonded to the oxygen atom by ________ bonds, whereas neighboring water molecules are held together by ________ bonds.

Question

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The hydrogen atoms of a water molecule are bonded to the oxygen atom by polar covalent bonds because there is a strong electronegativity difference between oxygen and hydrogen, resulting in a partial positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a partial negative charge on the oxygen atom. Neighboring water molecules are held together by hydrogen bonds, which are weak electrostatic attractions between the partial positive charge of the hydrogen atom in one water molecule and the partial negative charge of the oxygen atom in another water molecule.

The Hydrogen Atoms of a Water Molecule Are Bonded to the Oxygen