What type of intermolecular forces cause water molecules to 'stick' to each other?

• A. Van der Waals forces
• B. Covalent bonds
• C. Hydrogen bonds
• D. Ionic bonds

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the types of intermolecular forces: Intermolecular forces are forces of attraction or repulsion which act between neighboring particles (atoms, molecules, or ions). The main types include Van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonds, and ionic bonds.
2. Understand hydrogen bonding: Hydrogen bonds are a type of strong dipole-dipole attraction between molecules, where a hydrogen atom is covalently bonded to a highly electronegative atom such as oxygen, nitrogen, or fluorine, and is attracted to another electronegative atom in a different molecule.
3. Recognize the structure of water: A water molecule (H₂O) consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom. The oxygen atom is more electronegative, creating a polar molecule with a partial negative charge on the oxygen and a partial positive charge on the hydrogens.
4. Explain how hydrogen bonds form in water: The partial positive charge on the hydrogen atoms of one water molecule is attracted to the partial negative charge on the oxygen atom of a neighboring water molecule, forming a hydrogen bond.
5. Conclude why hydrogen bonds are responsible for water's cohesion: These hydrogen bonds cause water molecules to 'stick' to each other, leading to high surface tension and other unique properties of water.