Why is the water molecule bent?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the explanation of the shape of a water molecule, specifically why it has a bent shape instead of a linear one. This involves understanding molecular geometry and the influence of lone pairs of electrons on the arrangement of atoms.
Answer
The bent shape is due to two pairs of unshared electrons on the oxygen atom.
The bent shape of the water molecule is due to the two pairs of unshared electrons on the oxygen atom repelling the bonding pairs.
Answer for screen readers
The bent shape of the water molecule is due to the two pairs of unshared electrons on the oxygen atom repelling the bonding pairs.
More Information
The bent shape of the water molecule leads to its unique properties like high surface tension and the ability to dissolve many substances.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming the shape is due to the hydrogen atoms alone, but it is largely influenced by the lone pairs of electrons on the oxygen atom.
Sources
- Structure of Water and Hydrogen Bonding - Khan Academy - khanacademy.org
- 15.1: Structure of Water - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
- Why is water a bent molecule and not linear? - Toppr - toppr.com
