The crystal lattice of ice is mostly formed by

Options

A. ionic forces
B. covalent bonds
C. intramolecular H-bonds
D. covalent as well as H-bonds

Answer

To solve the question "The crystal lattice of ice is mostly formed by," we can break down the explanation into clear steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Structure of Ice:**
- Ice has a unique crystal lattice structure. It is important to recognize that this structure is not random but organized in a specific way.

2. **Identifying the Components of Ice:**
- Ice is composed of water molecules (H₂O). Each water molecule consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom.

3. **Types of Bonds in Ice:**
- Within each water molecule, the atoms are held together by **covalent bonds**. This is the bond between hydrogen and oxygen within the molecule.
- Between the water molecules, there are **hydrogen bonds**. These are weaker interactions that occur due to the polar nature of water molecules, where the hydrogen atom of one water molecule is attracted to the oxygen atom of another.

4. **Formation of the Crystal Lattice:**
- The crystal lattice of ice is primarily formed by the arrangement of water molecules held together by hydrogen bonds. The hydrogen bonds create a cage-like structure that stabilizes the arrangement of the molecules in the solid state.

5. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, the crystal lattice of ice is mostly formed by **hydrogen bonds** between water molecules, while the covalent bonds are present within the water molecules themselves.

### Final Answer:
The crystal lattice of ice is mostly formed by hydrogen bonds between water molecules.

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