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The molecular structure of water resembles that of a teddy bear’s
head. The hydrogen and the oxygen atoms have a very tight covalent
bond formed where the hydrogen and the oxygen share electrons. Bonding
between molecules of water is called a hydrogen bond, which has a
weaker attraction. The hydrogen atoms of one water molecule stick to the
oxygen atoms of nearby water molecules. These weak bonds are very
important for the chemistry of life. Molecules which stick to water,
such as alcohol and sugar, are called hydrophilic, meaning
"water loving."
Not all molecules are sticky. The scientific name is hydrophobic which
means "water fearing." Examples of slippery molecules are fats
and oils.
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