Answer: relatively inert at room temperature.
- A highly reactive at room temperature
- B relatively inert at room temperature
- C a powerful oxidising agent overall
- D predominantly ionic in character
Correct answer: B. relatively inert at room temperature
Explanation: The very strong H–H bond makes dihydrogen kinetically unreactive at room temperature; reactions need heat, light or a catalyst to break the bond.
Each water molecule's O-H bonds (covalent, solid) can hydrogen-bond (dashed) to neighbouring molecules, forming an extended network responsible for water's unusually high boiling point and density anomaly.
Concept context
The simplest and most abundant element in the universe. Study its unique position in the periodic table, isotopes (protium, deuterium, tritium), properties of water and hydrogen peroxide, and industrial uses.