* Covalent Bonds: Hydrogen and oxygen share electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. This sharing forms a covalent bond.

* Polarity: Oxygen is more electronegative than hydrogen, meaning it attracts the shared electrons more strongly. This creates a partial negative charge (δ-) on the oxygen atom and partial positive charges (δ+) on the hydrogen atoms.

The uneven distribution of charge within the molecule creates a dipole moment, making the bond polar.

In addition to the polar covalent bonds within the molecule, water also exhibits strong hydrogen bonds between molecules. These hydrogen bonds are responsible for many of water's unique properties, like its high boiling point and ability to dissolve many substances.