& x20;Chemical formula for water? - NORCET 1 - 2020

NORCET 1 - 2020

Biochemistry & Nutrition

Easy

Appeared in: NORCET 1 - 2020

Explanation

The chemical formula H₂O correctly represents one molecule of water, which consists of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom.
This specific 2:1 ratio of hydrogen to oxygen is the defining characteristic of water.
Understanding this basic formula is fundamental to chemistry and biology, as water's structure gives it unique properties like polarity and hydrogen bonding, which are essential for life.

Option B: N₂O is the chemical formula for nitrous oxide, not water. It has two nitrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.
Option C: CO₂ is the chemical formula for carbon dioxide. It consists of one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms.
Option D: HO₂ is the formula for the hydroperoxyl radical. It is a highly reactive and unstable molecule, not the stable compound water.

Visual 1: Visual 1: Diagram of a Water Molecule. A simple ball-and-stick model showing one red sphere (Oxygen) connected to two smaller white spheres (Hydrogen) at an angle of approximately 104.5 degrees. This visual helps reinforce the 'H₂O' structure.
Visual 2: Visual 2: Infographic of Common Molecules. A chart showing the formulas and simple models for H₂O (Water), CO₂ (Carbon Dioxide), O₂ (Oxygen), and N₂O (Nitrous Oxide) to visually differentiate them.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Basic Chemical Formulas as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Water (H₂O) is the most abundant molecule in the human body, making up about 60% of total body weight. It is the universal solvent in which metabolic reactions occur.
In clinical practice, maintaining water balance (hydration) is critical. Dehydration can lead to electrolyte imbalances and organ dysfunction, while overhydration can cause edema and strain on the heart.
What if? If a patient presents with severe dehydration, a nurse would anticipate administering intravenous fluids. The base of these fluids (like 0.9% Normal Saline or Dextrose 5% in Water) is sterile water (H₂O), highlighting its role as a delivery vehicle for electrolytes and nutrients.

How to Approach the Question

Step 1: Identify the core concept. The question asks for a basic fact: the chemical formula for water.
Step 2: Recall the definition. A chemical formula represents the types and numbers of atoms in a molecule. 'Water' is universally known to be composed of hydrogen and oxygen.
Step 3: Analyze the name 'water'. The name itself doesn't give the ratio, so direct recall is necessary.
Step 4: Evaluate the options. Look for the formula that represents two hydrogen atoms (H₂) and one oxygen atom (O).
Step 5: Select the correct match. H₂O directly translates to 'H-2, O-1', which is the correct composition of water. Eliminate the other options as they represent different compounds (Nitrous Oxide, Carbon Dioxide, and a radical).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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