What type of bonds are formed between water molecules?

Water molecules interact with each other primarily through hydrogen bonds. These bonds form due to the polar nature of water, which means that there is an uneven distribution of electron density across the molecules. The oxygen atom is more electronegative than the hydrogen atoms, leading to a partial negative charge (δ-) on the oxygen and a partial positive charge (δ+) on the hydrogen atoms.

In hydrogen bonding, the hydrogen atom of one water molecule is attracted to the electronegative oxygen atom of another water molecule. This attraction creates a relatively weak bond compared to covalent or ionic bonds but is significant in affecting the physical properties of water. For example, hydrogen bonds contribute to water's high boiling point, surface tension, and ability to dissolve various substances, making it an essential solvent in biological systems.

Understanding hydrogen bonds is vital in many biological processes, including enzyme activity, DNA stability, and the behavior of proteins in aqueous environments.