Why is water a bent molecule?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the molecular geometry of water, specifically why it has a bent shape. It involves understanding the concept of molecular shape and the arrangement of atoms and lone pairs of electrons around a central atom, in this case, oxygen.
Answer
Because the oxygen atom in the water molecule has two lone pairs of electrons that repel each other, giving the molecule a bent shape.
The final answer is because the oxygen atom in the water molecule has two lone pairs of electrons that repel each other, giving the molecule a bent shape.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is because the oxygen atom in the water molecule has two lone pairs of electrons that repel each other, giving the molecule a bent shape.
More Information
The bent shape of water is crucial for its properties, such as its high boiling point and surface tension, due to hydrogen bonding.
Tips
Common mistakes include confusing the bent shape with a straight or linear shape, which would significantly alter water's properties.
Sources
- Hydrogen bonding in water - Khan Academy - khanacademy.org
- Why is the molecular structure of water bent? - Chemistry Stack Exchange - chemistry.stackexchange.com
- 15.1: Structure of Water - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
