The partial negative charge in a molecule of water occurs because ________.
A) the oxygen atom donates an electron to each of the hydrogen atoms
B) the electrons shared between the oxygen and hydrogen atoms spend more time around the oxygen atom nucleus than around the hydrogen atom nucleus
C) the oxygen atom has two pairs of electrons in its valence shell that are not neutralized by hydrogen atoms
D) one of the hydrogen atoms donates an electron to the oxygen atom

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The electrons in a water molecule are more attracted to the oxygen atom due to its higher electronegativity compared to hydrogen. This causes the electrons to spend more time around the oxygen atom, giving it a partial negative charge, while the hydrogen atoms have a partial positive charge.

The Partial Negative Charge in a Molecule of Water Occurs