Explain how the covalent bonds in the water molecule hold the hydrogen and oxygen atoms together.

Covalent bonds in a water molecule hold the hydrogen and oxygen atoms together through a process called "sharing of electrons". Here's a step-by-step explanation:

1. Each water molecule is made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.

2. The oxygen atom has six electrons in its outer shell, and it needs two more to achieve a stable configuration of eight electrons.

3. Each hydrogen atom has one electron in its outer shell, and it needs one more to achieve a stable configuration of two electrons.

4. Therefore, the oxygen atom shares one of its electrons with each hydrogen atom. In return, each hydrogen atom also shares its single electron with the oxygen atom