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BIO NMDCAT Biological Importance of Water
nmdcat.online June 27, 2026

The most appropriate explanation for the high boiling point of water relative to other molecules of similar size is the

A. High electronegativity of the hydrogen atoms
B. Strong network of intermolecular hydrogen bonds that must be overcome
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C. Spontaneous ionization of water into hydronium and hydroxide ions
D. Bent geometry causing a permanent dipole moment

📝 Explanation

While water's polarity and geometry are contributing factors, the direct reason for its abnormally high boiling point is the strength and number of intermolecular hydrogen bonds. A large amount of thermal energy is required to disrupt these attractive forces to allow molecules to escape as vapor.

📖 Additional Information

  • High electronegativity of the hydrogen atoms
  • Strong network of intermolecular hydrogen bonds that must be overcome
  • Spontaneous ionization of water into hydronium and hydroxide ions
  • Bent geometry causing a permanent dipole moment

While water's polarity and geometry are contributing factors, the direct reason for its abnormally high boiling point is the strength and number of intermolecular hydrogen bonds. A large amount of thermal energy is required to disrupt these attractive forces to allow molecules to escape as vapor.

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