Question map
Which one of the following statements about water is not true?
Explanation
Water (H2O) is a polar molecule, making statement 4 incorrect. Its polarity arises from the significant electronegativity difference between oxygen and hydrogen atoms. Oxygen attracts shared electrons more strongly, creating a partial negative charge, while hydrogen atoms carry partial positive charges. This charge distribution, combined with its bent molecular geometry (bond angle of approximately 104.5°), results in a net dipole moment. This polar nature allows water to form strong intermolecular hydrogen bonds in its liquid state. These hydrogen bonds are responsible for water's unique physical properties, including its high boiling point and high heat of fusion, as significant energy is required to overcome these attractive forces during phase transitions. Consequently, water acts as an effective solvent for other polar and ionic substances.