How do hydrogen and oxygen atoms form covalent bonds to create a molecule of water (H_2O)?

• A. Oxygen atom shares two electrons with each hydrogen atom, forming two double covalent bonds.
• B. Each hydrogen atom shares one electron with the oxygen atom, and the oxygen atom shares one electron with each hydrogen atom, forming two single covalent bonds.
• C. Hydrogen and oxygen atoms do not share electrons; they are held together by van der Waals forces.
• D. Hydrogen atoms transfer their electrons to the oxygen atom, resulting in ionic bonds.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a covalent bond forms when atoms share electrons to achieve a full outer electron shell, leading to greater stability.
2. Recognize that oxygen has six valence electrons and needs two more to complete its octet, while each hydrogen has one valence electron and needs one more to fill its shell (which holds 2 electrons).
3. Visualize that each hydrogen atom shares its single electron with oxygen, and oxygen shares one of its electrons with each hydrogen, resulting in two shared pairs of electrons.
4. These shared pairs of electrons constitute two single covalent bonds, one between each hydrogen atom and the oxygen atom.
5. Conclude that the water molecule (H\_2O) is formed by these two single covalent bonds, which hold the atoms together in a stable arrangement.