Maximum number of hydrogen bonding in `H_(2)O` is

Options

A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4

Answer

To determine the maximum number of hydrogen bonds that can form in a water molecule (H₂O), we need to analyze the structure and properties of water.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Structure of Water**:
- Water (H₂O) consists of one oxygen atom covalently bonded to two hydrogen atoms. The oxygen atom is more electronegative than hydrogen, which creates a polar molecule.

2. **Polarity and Hydrogen Bonding**:
- The electronegativity difference between oxygen and hydrogen leads to a partial negative charge (δ-) on the oxygen atom and a partial positive charge (δ+) on the hydrogen atoms. This polarity allows water molecules to form hydrogen bonds with each other.

3. **Formation of Hydrogen Bonds**:
- Each water molecule can form hydrogen bonds with other water molecules. The hydrogen atoms (δ+) of one water molecule can attract the oxygen atom (δ-) of another water molecule.

4. **Maximum Number of Hydrogen Bonds**:
- Each water molecule can form a maximum of four hydrogen bonds:
- Two hydrogen bonds can be formed by the two hydrogen atoms (one bond each).
- The oxygen atom can also act as a hydrogen bond acceptor for two other hydrogen atoms from different water molecules.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the maximum number of hydrogen bonds that can be formed by one water molecule is four.

### Final Answer:
The maximum number of hydrogen bonds in H₂O is **4**.