Hydrogen bonding — Science definition

An especially strong dipole-dipole attraction that forms when hydrogen is bonded to N, O, or F and is drawn to a lone pair on the N, O, or F of a neighboring molecule.

Where it is taught

In use

The standout of the three is hydrogen bonding, a particularly important interaction with a specific donor/acceptor context in common introductory examples.

Intermolecular Forces

Questions using hydrogen bonding

Problem 1

Hydrogen bonding can occur only when a hydrogen atom is bonded directly to…
  1. another hydrogen
  2. nitrogen, oxygen, or fluorine
  3. carbon
  4. any metal
Answer and explanation

nitrogen, oxygen, or fluorine

Hydrogen bonding requires H bonded to a highly electronegative N, O, or F atom.

Problem 2

Explain the following claim and supply a valid example or counterexample: Hydrogen bonding is not simply every bond containing H; ordinary boiling does not break covalent molecules apart.
Answer and explanation

All particles have dispersion attractions; larger polarizable electron clouds can produce substantial attraction. Hydrogen bonding is not simply every bond containing H; ordinary boiling does not break covalent molecules apart.

Response criteria

  • State a scientifically accurate conclusion.
  • Show the calculation or mechanism that supports it.
  • Include units, conditions, or limits where relevant.

Problem 3

What two conditions must be met for hydrogen bonding to occur between molecules?
Answer and explanation

(1) A hydrogen atom must be bonded directly to a highly electronegative N, O, or F atom, and (2) that hydrogen must be attracted to a lone pair of electrons on an N, O, or F atom of a neighboring molecule.

Taught alongside

Elsewhere

Browse all courses