What are the similarities and differences between the arrangments of molecules and the forces between molecules in liquid water versus steam and in liquid water versus ice?

Answer 1

In liquid water, molecules are closely packed but can move freely, allowing for moderate intermolecular forces (hydrogen bonds) that provide fluidity. In steam, water molecules are far apart with minimal intermolecular forces, resulting in a gaseous state characterized by high energy and low density. In contrast, ice has a rigid, crystalline structure where water molecules are arranged in a fixed pattern, maintaining stronger hydrogen bonds that create a lower density than liquid water. Thus, while all three states involve hydrogen bonding, the arrangement and strength of intermolecular forces differ significantly between them.