The fact that ice is less dense than water is related to the fact that ____.
the molecular structure of ice is much less orderly than that of water
the molecules of ice are held to each other by covalent bonding
ice has a molecular structure in which water molecules are arranged randomly
ice has a molecular structure that is an open framework held together by hydrogen bonds
I think #4 fits the best.
D is the correct answer!!!
The correct answer is:
Ice has a molecular structure that is an open framework held together by hydrogen bonds.
When water freezes and turns into ice, the water molecules form a unique arrangement due to the presence of hydrogen bonds. The hydrogen bonds are stronger in ice compared to liquid water, causing the water molecules to arrange themselves in a more open and ordered framework. This open framework creates more space between the water molecules, resulting in ice being less dense than liquid water.
To determine the correct answer, it is important to understand the concept of density and the difference in molecular structure between ice and water. Additionally, having prior knowledge about the properties of hydrogen bonds and how they affect the arrangement of water molecules is key to arriving at the correct answer.