Question

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:

Hydrogen - bonding is a major factor in water's high specific heat. A water molecule can form 4 hydrogen bonds. The strong hydrogen - bonding network requires a large amount of energy to break, thus giving water a high specific heat. Covalent bonds within water molecules are not the main factor for high specific heat. Also, 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.