The boiling point of water is exceptionally high because water molecules associate due to hydrogen bonding.

Hydrogen bonding in water:
Water (H2O) is a polar molecule, meaning it has a partial positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a partial negative charge on the oxygen atom. This polarity allows water molecules to form hydrogen bonds with each other.

Definition of hydrogen bonding:
Hydrogen bonding is a type of intermolecular force that occurs when a hydrogen atom, which is covalently bonded to an electronegative atom (such as oxygen or nitrogen), is attracted to another electronegative atom in a different molecule.

Formation of hydrogen bonds:
In water, each oxygen atom can form hydrogen bonds with two hydrogen atoms from neighboring water molecules. The oxygen atom acts as a hydrogen bond acceptor, while the hydrogen atoms act as hydrogen bond donors. This results in a network of hydrogen bonding between water molecules.

Effect of hydrogen bonding on boiling point:
Hydrogen bonding is a strong intermolecular force, and it requires a considerable amount of energy to break these bonds and convert water from a liquid to a gas.

When water is heated, the energy provided causes the water molecules to gain kinetic energy and move more rapidly. As the temperature increases, the kinetic energy of the water molecules overcomes the hydrogen bonding forces, and the water starts to boil.

The high boiling point of water is due to the strength of the hydrogen bonds between water molecules. These bonds must be broken in order for the water to change from a liquid to a gas. The boiling point of water is 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit) at sea level, which is relatively high compared to other substances of similar molecular weight.

Significance of high boiling point of water:
The high boiling point of water is essential for various biological and environmental processes. It allows water to exist as a liquid over a wide range of temperatures, providing a stable environment for living organisms. It also enables water to transfer heat efficiently, making it an excellent coolant in many biological systems.

In conclusion, the high boiling point of water is primarily due to the hydrogen bonding between water molecules. These strong intermolecular forces require a significant amount of energy to break, resulting in a boiling point of 100 degrees Celsius.