Individual water molecules are held to one another by relatively weak ________ bonds.

Individual water molecules are held to one another by relatively weak hydrogen bonds.

Explanation

Water (H2O) is a polar molecule, meaning it has a partial positive charge on one side (the hydrogen atoms) and a partial negative charge on the other side (the oxygen atom). This polarity allows water molecules to form hydrogen bonds with each other. A hydrogen bond occurs when the positively charged hydrogen atom of one water molecule is attracted to the negatively charged oxygen atom of another water molecule. These bonds are relatively weak compared to covalent bonds, which involve the actual sharing of electrons.

Hydrogen bonding is crucial for many of water's unique properties, such as its high specific heat capacity, surface tension, and the ability to dissolve many substances. This bonding influences the structure and behavior of water in various states, contributing to its role in supporting life and various environmental processes.