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 answer the question "The crystal lattice of ice is mostly formed by," we need to analyze the structure of ice and the types of bonds present in it.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Composition of Ice**:
- Ice is the solid form of water (H₂O). Each water molecule consists of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.

2. **Identifying the Type of Bonds**:
- In a water molecule, the oxygen atom shares electrons with the hydrogen atoms, forming covalent bonds. This sharing allows oxygen to achieve a stable electron configuration.

3. **Valency and Electron Sharing**:
- Oxygen has six valence electrons and needs two more to complete its octet. Each hydrogen atom has one valence electron and needs one more to complete its duet. Thus, the sharing of electrons between oxygen and hydrogen leads to the formation of covalent bonds.

4. **Formation of Hydrogen Bonds**:
- In the solid state (ice), each water molecule can form hydrogen bonds with neighboring water molecules. This occurs because oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, creating a polar molecule where the oxygen atom has a partial negative charge and the hydrogen atoms have partial positive charges.

5. **Intermolecular Hydrogen Bonding**:
- The hydrogen bonds in ice are intermolecular, meaning they occur between different water molecules. These bonds are responsible for the unique structure of ice, which is less dense than liquid water, allowing ice to float.

6. **Conclusion**:
- The crystal lattice of ice is primarily formed by covalent bonds within the water molecules and hydrogen bonds between the water molecules.

### Final Answer:
The crystal lattice of ice is mostly formed by **hydrogen bonds** between water molecules, along with covalent bonds within the water molecules.

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