In water (H₂O), how do the two lone pairs on oxygen affect the bond angle compared to the ideal tetrahedral angle?

• A. The bond angle is 120 degrees.
• B. The bond angle is exactly 109.5 degrees.
• C. The bond angle is greater than 109.5 degrees.
• D. The bond angle is significantly less than 109.5 degrees.

Answer: (D)