The ability of water molecules to form hydrogen bonds with other water molecules and water's ability to dissolve substances that have charges or partial charges are __________.

• A. both caused by water's ability to form covalent bonds with hydrophobic substances
• B. due to water's partial charges and low molecular mass, respectively
• C. both caused by water's two electron shells
• D. both caused by water's partial charges

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that water molecules are polar, meaning they have a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other side due to the difference in electronegativity between hydrogen and oxygen atoms.
2. Recognize that the polarity of water molecules allows them to form hydrogen bonds with each other. The partial positive charge of the hydrogen atom in one water molecule is attracted to the partial negative charge of the oxygen atom in another water molecule.
3. Identify that substances with charges or partial charges, such as ions or polar molecules, can dissolve in water because the charged regions of water molecules can surround and interact with these substances, effectively separating and dissolving them.
4. Note that the ability of water to dissolve substances with charges or partial charges is not related to its molecular mass or the number of electron shells, but rather to its polarity and ability to form hydrogen bonds.
5. Conclude that both the ability of water molecules to form hydrogen bonds with other water molecules and water's ability to dissolve charged substances are due to water's partial charges, which arise from its polar nature.