Which of the following best describes the property of cohesion in water?

• A. Water molecules are attracted to each other due to hydrogen bonding.
• B. Water evaporates quickly due to weak intermolecular forces.
• C. Water molecules are attracted to non-water surfaces, such as glass.
• D. Water molecules repel each other, preventing droplet formation.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of cohesion: Cohesion refers to the attraction between molecules of the same substance. In the case of water, this property arises due to hydrogen bonding between water molecules.
2. Recall the role of hydrogen bonds: Water molecules are polar, meaning they have a partial positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a partial negative charge on the oxygen atom. This polarity allows water molecules to form hydrogen bonds with each other.
3. Analyze the options: Evaluate each statement in the context of cohesion. For example, 'Water molecules are attracted to each other due to hydrogen bonding' aligns with the definition of cohesion, while the other options describe different properties or incorrect behaviors of water.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: For instance, 'Water evaporates quickly due to weak intermolecular forces' is incorrect because water has strong hydrogen bonds, which slow evaporation. Similarly, 'Water molecules are attracted to non-water surfaces, such as glass' describes adhesion, not cohesion. Lastly, 'Water molecules repel each other, preventing droplet formation' contradicts the cohesive property of water.
5. Select the correct answer: Based on the analysis, the statement 'Water molecules are attracted to each other due to hydrogen bonding' best describes the property of cohesion in water.