What is the maximum number of water molecules that can attach with one water molecule through intermolecular hydrogen bonds?

Options

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

Answer

To determine the maximum number of water molecules that can attach to one water molecule through intermolecular hydrogen bonds, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Structure of Water
Water (H₂O) has a bent molecular shape due to the two lone pairs of electrons on the oxygen atom. The oxygen atom is bonded to two hydrogen atoms.

**Hint:** Remember that the bent shape of the water molecule is crucial for understanding hydrogen bonding.

### Step 2: Identify the Lone Pairs and Bonding Sites
In a water molecule, the oxygen atom has two lone pairs of electrons. These lone pairs can participate in hydrogen bonding with hydrogen atoms from other water molecules.

**Hint:** Consider how many hydrogen atoms can be involved in bonding with the lone pairs of oxygen.

### Step 3: Visualize Hydrogen Bonding
Each water molecule can form hydrogen bonds with other water molecules. The oxygen atom of one water molecule can form hydrogen bonds with the hydrogen atoms of up to four neighboring water molecules.

**Hint:** Think about how the lone pairs on the oxygen can interact with the hydrogen atoms of other water molecules.

### Step 4: Count the Maximum Number of Hydrogen Bonds
Each water molecule can form:
- Two hydrogen bonds with its own hydrogen atoms (to two neighboring water molecules).
- Additionally, the two lone pairs on the oxygen can interact with the hydrogen atoms of two more water molecules.

Thus, a single water molecule can form hydrogen bonds with a total of four water molecules.

**Hint:** Remember that each water molecule can act as both a hydrogen bond donor and acceptor.

### Step 5: Conclusion
Therefore, the maximum number of water molecules that can attach to one water molecule through intermolecular hydrogen bonds is **four**.

**Final Answer:** 4