How many atoms are in a single molecule of water
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
A single molecule of water contains 3 atoms.
Explanation
Water is one of the most essential substances for life on Earth. Its chemical formula is H₂O, which tells us how many atoms make up one molecule of water. The formula H₂O means that each molecule of water is made of two hydrogen (H) atoms and one oxygen (O) atom. When we add these together, we get a total of 3 atoms per molecule.
To understand this better, let us look at what a molecule is. A molecule is a group of two or more atoms that are chemically bonded together. In the case of water, the two hydrogen atoms are each bonded to the single oxygen atom through covalent bonds. These bonds form when atoms share electrons so they can achieve a more stable electron configuration.
Hydrogen is the simplest atom with only one proton and one electron. Oxygen is more complex, with eight protons and eight electrons. When two hydrogen atoms bond with one oxygen atom, the oxygen shares one electron with each hydrogen. This sharing creates a stable structure for all the atoms involved. The result is a bent-shaped molecule where the atoms are arranged in an angle of about 104.5 degrees.
This structure gives water some of its unique properties, such as high surface tension, the ability to dissolve many substances, and the ability to exist in all three states of matter (solid, liquid, gas) at temperatures commonly found on Earth.
So, to summarize:
- Water has the chemical formula H₂O.
- Each water molecule has 2 hydrogen atoms and 1 oxygen atom.
- That makes 3 atoms in total per molecule of water.
Understanding this small but fundamental detail helps explain why water behaves the way it does and why it is so important in chemistry and biology.
