Question

part f (6 of 11)
which of the following helps most to explain why water has a high specific heat?
(a) a water molecule can make 4 hydrogen bonds.
(b) the water molecule has exceptionally strong covalent bonds.
(c) water temperature is exceptionally sensitive to heat.
both (a) and (b).
both (b) and (c).

Explanation:

Water's high specific - heat is mainly due to the hydrogen - bonding network. A water molecule can form 4 hydrogen bonds. These hydrogen bonds require a significant amount of energy to break, which means more heat is needed to raise the temperature of water. The covalent bonds within a water molecule are not directly related to its high specific heat, and water having a high specific heat means it is not very sensitive to heat (it takes a lot of heat to change its temperature).

Answer:

A. A water molecule can make 4 hydrogen bonds.