Chapter 18, Problem 19TE

How are oxygen molecules attracted to water molecules?

To determine

The oxygen molecules are attracted to water molecules?

Answer to Problem 19TE

Water molecule contain less electropositive hydrogen atom and possesses tendency to form hydrogen bond with electronegative oxygen molecules.

Explanation of Solution

The oxygen molecule contains two oxygen atoms and gets formed through mutual sharing of electrons. Since both these atomsareidentical and thus oxygen molecule gets considered as non-polar molecule.

A water molecule functions as polar covalent molecule with an oxygen atom containing partial negative charge and hydrogen atom containing partial positive charge. The hydrogen atom existing in water molecule contains positive charge can be attracted through electronegative oxygen molecule and thus tends to make a hydrogen bond.

Conclusion:

Therefore, a Water molecule contain less electropositive hydrogen atom and possesses tendency to form hydrogen bond with electronegative oxygen molecules.