Explaining the High Melting Point of Water

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SUMMARY

The high melting point of water is primarily attributed to hydrogen bonding, which is a significant intermolecular force. Unlike other group 4 hydrides, water's molecular structure allows for strong hydrogen bonds that require considerable energy to break. This results in a higher melting point compared to similar compounds. Understanding the distinction between intermolecular and intramolecular forces is crucial for grasping this concept.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of intermolecular vs. intramolecular forces
  • Basic knowledge of chemical bonding types, specifically hydrogen bonding
  • Familiarity with group classifications of hydrides
  • Access to a chemistry textbook covering intermolecular attractions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties and examples of hydrogen bonding in various substances
  • Learn about the differences between ionic, covalent, and dispersion forces
  • Research the molecular structure of water and its implications on physical properties
  • Examine the melting and boiling points of other group 6 hydrides for comparison
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the physical properties of water and the role of intermolecular forces in determining melting points.

andyman20
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Hi..
I've finished this topic but I was confused in this question.

The question is :

The main reason for the high melting point of water compared to other group4 hydrides can be explained by:

a.Ionic Bonding
b.Covalent Bonding
c.Dispersion Forces
d.Hydrogen Bonding

I'm not sure which it is.

Thank you...
 
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First of all, water is not a group 4 hydride - it is a group 6 hydride.

Ask yourself what kind of bonds (inter- or intra-molecular ?) you need to break in order to melt something.

What do you mean by "I've finished this topic" ?
 
yeah..

i know that its one of the intermolecular forces but i can't figure which one it is. How do you figure that out??
THANKS
 
Which of those forces are intermolecular and which ones are intramolecular ?
 
Read up in your chemistry text, on the section intermolecular attractions, it should have a whole section devoted to water specifically...yes it's easy as that
 

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