Why does liquid water have such a high heat capacity?

Choose 1 answer:

(Choice A)

Water is a nonpolar molecule.

(Choice B)

Water molecules are packed very closely together.

(Choice C)

Water is a linear molecule which makes absorbing heat easier.

(Choice D)

Water molecules are good at forming and breaking hydrogen bonds.

Choice D

Explanation:

Water molecules exhibit hydrogen bonded to oxygen, which is considered a hydrogen bond. This is the strongest type of bond and is not easily broken. Once formed, a large amount of heat is needed to disrupt the bond energy and break apart the molecule. Therefore, water has a high heat capacity and can withstand higher temperatures than that of some other liquids.