Essential Cell Biology, 4th Edition

Published by Garland Science
ISBN 10: 0815344546
ISBN 13: 978-0-81534-454-4

Chapter 2 - Chemical Components of Cells - Questions - Page 80: Question 2-13

Answer

H$_2$O is a liquid at room temperature due to the large degree of difference in attraction and charge between hydrogen and oxygen atoms. On the other hand, sodium and hydrogen both share a relatively similar charge, causing almost no attraction between individual H$_2$S atoms, which causes a gaseous state at room temperature.

Work Step by Step

The difference in polarity between hydrogen and oxygen atoms causes individual molecules of H$_2$O to be drawn together, causing its liquid state at room temperature. The lack of differing polarity between hydrogen and sodium atoms makes it difficult for individual molecules of H$_2$S to clump together to form a liquid at room temperature.
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