What is the chemical symbol for water?
The chemical symbol for water is H2O. This symbol consists of two hydrogen atoms (H) and one oxygen atom (O) bonded together by a covalent bond. Water is one of the most common and important compounds on Earth and is vital to all known forms of life.
Chemical structure of water
The molecular structure of water is angular, and its shape is due to the bonds between the oxygen atom and the hydrogen atom. The oxygen atom has two lone pairs of electrons that push the hydrogen atoms apart, forming an angle of about 104.5 degrees. This angular structure makes water a polar molecule, meaning it has a partial negative charge on the side of the oxygen atom and a partial positive charge on the side of the hydrogen atoms.
Properties of water
Water is a unique substance with several special properties:
- High boiling point and melting point: The boiling point of water is 100 °C and the melting point is 0 °C at normal pressure.
- A good solvent: Water can dissolve many substances, which makes it important in chemical reactions and biological processes.
- High surface tension: Water molecules attract each other, which causes a high surface tension and enables, for example, insects to walk on the surface of the water.
- Heat tolerance: Water can store large amounts of heat without its temperature rising significantly, which helps regulate climate temperature.
The importance of water for life
Water is essential for all known forms of life. It acts as a solvent, transports nutrients and waste, regulates body temperature and participates in many biochemical reactions. The human body consists of about 60% water, and without water a person would not survive more than a few days.
Sources
You can read more about the chemical symbol and properties of water from the following sources:
