Question

How are the molecules in oxygen gas, the molecules in hydrogen gas, and water molecules similar? How do they differ?

a) Similarities: All are diatomic molecules; Differences: Different elemental compositions
b) Similarities: All contain oxygen atoms; Differences: Varying numbers and arrangements of atoms
c) Similarities: All are compounds; Differences: Different chemical formulas
d) Similarities: All have covalent bonds; Differences: Different molecular structures

Answer 1

The commonality among them is the presence of oxygen atoms, whereas the differences stem from the distinct compositions and structures of the molecules.

The correct answer is:

b) Similarities: All contain oxygen atoms; Differences: Varying numbers and arrangements of atoms

Step-by-step explanation:

- **Similarities:** Both oxygen gas
`(\(O_2\))` and hydrogen gas
`(\(H_2\))` are diatomic molecules, meaning they consist of two atoms of the same element. Water
`(\(H_2O\))` is also composed of oxygen atoms.

- **Differences:** The molecules differ in their elemental composition and chemical structure. Oxygen gas consists of diatomic oxygen molecules
`(\(O_2\))`, hydrogen gas consists of diatomic hydrogen molecules
`(\(H_2\))`, and water consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom
`(\(H_2O\))`. So, while all contain oxygen atoms, the numbers and arrangements of atoms differ among these molecules.

The correct answer is:

b) Similarities: All contain oxygen atoms; Differences: Varying numbers and arrangements of atoms