Question

Which of these statements are true of water molecules? Check all that apply.

Water molecules are polar.

Water molecules are nonpolar.

Water molecules undergo hydrogen bonding.

Water molecules have a linear geometry.

Water molecules have a bent geometry.

Answer 1

True:
- Water molecules are polar. — The O atom is more electronegative than H and, with the bent shape, the bond dipoles do not cancel, giving a net dipole.
- Water molecules undergo hydrogen bonding. — The partial positive H on one molecule attracts a lone pair on O of another molecule.
- Water molecules have a bent geometry. — The two lone pairs on O produce a bent shape (bond angle ≈ 104.5°).

False:
- Water molecules are nonpolar.
- Water molecules have a linear geometry.