Which of the following best describes a result of the polar nature of water molecules?

• A. Water molecules have a uniform charge distribution, preventing adhesion to other substances.
• B. Water molecules repel each other, resulting in low surface tension.
• C. Water molecules are nonpolar, allowing them to dissolve lipids easily.
• D. Water molecules form hydrogen bonds with each other, leading to high cohesion.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of polarity: Water molecules are polar, meaning they have a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other due to the difference in electronegativity between oxygen and hydrogen atoms.
2. Recognize the implications of polarity: The polar nature of water molecules allows them to form hydrogen bonds with each other. These bonds occur between the slightly positive hydrogen atom of one water molecule and the slightly negative oxygen atom of another.
3. Explore the concept of cohesion: Cohesion refers to the attraction between molecules of the same substance. In water, the hydrogen bonds create a strong cohesive force, which is why water molecules tend to stick together.
4. Consider the effects of cohesion: High cohesion in water leads to phenomena such as high surface tension, where the surface of water behaves like a stretched elastic membrane, allowing insects to walk on it and droplets to form.
5. Evaluate the incorrect options: The other options incorrectly describe water's properties. Water does not have a uniform charge distribution, does not repel each other, and is not nonpolar. These misconceptions do not align with the known properties of water's polarity and hydrogen bonding.