Why are hydrogen bonds important for the properties of water in living organisms?

• A. They prevent water from interacting with other molecules in cells.
• B. They cause water to dissolve only nonpolar substances.
• C. They allow water molecules to stick together, enabling processes like transpiration in plants.
• D. They make water molecules repel each other, preventing surface tension.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of hydrogen bonds: Hydrogen bonds are weak interactions that occur between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an electronegative atom (like oxygen) and another electronegative atom. In water, these bonds form between the hydrogen of one water molecule and the oxygen of another.
2. Recognize the role of hydrogen bonds in water's cohesion: Hydrogen bonds allow water molecules to stick together, a property known as cohesion. This is crucial for processes like transpiration in plants, where water moves upward through the plant's vascular system.
3. Explore how hydrogen bonds contribute to surface tension: The cohesive nature of water due to hydrogen bonds creates surface tension, allowing small organisms to walk on water and enabling water droplets to form.
4. Understand the importance of hydrogen bonds in dissolving substances: While hydrogen bonds do not cause water to dissolve only nonpolar substances, they do enable water to dissolve many polar and ionic compounds, making it an excellent solvent for biological processes.
5. Clarify misconceptions: Hydrogen bonds do not make water molecules repel each other; instead, they are responsible for the attraction between water molecules, which is essential for many biological functions, including nutrient transport and temperature regulation.