How do water molecules combine together to form a liquid?
www.brooklyn.cuny.edu/bc/ahp/LAD/C3a/C3a_water
www.reference.com/geography/water-form-36687810ea23bf2f
Does that help?
not really.
Water molecules combine together through a process known as hydrogen bonding, which allows them to form a liquid state. The hydrogen bonding occurs between the oxygen atom of one water molecule and the hydrogen atoms of neighboring water molecules.
To understand how water molecules combine to form a liquid, let's break it down step by step:
1. Water is composed of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom (H2O).
2. The oxygen atom in water has a slightly negative charge (δ-) due to its higher electronegativity, while the hydrogen atoms have a slightly positive charge (δ+).
3. Due to these partial charges, a water molecule can attract neighboring water molecules through electrostatic attraction.
4. The slightly negative oxygen atom of one water molecule is attracted to the slightly positive hydrogen atoms of neighboring water molecules.
5. This attraction is known as a hydrogen bond. Each water molecule can form hydrogen bonds with up to four neighboring water molecules.
6. As more water molecules come together, they form a network of hydrogen bonds, creating a three-dimensional structure.
7. This network of hydrogen bonds gives water its unique properties, including high boiling and melting points and its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances.
8. In the liquid state, the water molecules are constantly moving, yet they maintain their hydrogen bonds with neighboring molecules.
9. The constant breaking and reforming of hydrogen bonds allow water to flow as a liquid while retaining its cohesive properties.
In summary, water molecules combine to form a liquid through the formation of hydrogen bonds, creating an interconnected network that gives water its liquid state.