In a group of water molecules, hydrogen bonds form between which of the following?

• A. Two hydrogen atoms in different water molecules
• B. The oxygen atoms in different water molecules
• C. The hydrogen atoms in a single water molecule
• D. The oxygen atom in one water molecule and a hydrogen atom in another water molecule

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of a water molecule: A water molecule (H₂O) consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom.
2. Recognize the polarity of water molecules: The oxygen atom is more electronegative than the hydrogen atoms, causing the oxygen to have a partial negative charge and the hydrogen atoms to have a partial positive charge.
3. Identify the nature of hydrogen bonds: Hydrogen bonds are weak interactions that occur between a hydrogen atom with a partial positive charge and another atom with a partial negative charge, often oxygen or nitrogen.
4. Determine the interaction between water molecules: In a group of water molecules, the partial positive charge of the hydrogen atom in one molecule is attracted to the partial negative charge of the oxygen atom in another molecule.
5. Conclude the correct pairing for hydrogen bonds: Therefore, hydrogen bonds form between the oxygen atom in one water molecule and a hydrogen atom in another water molecule.