Hydrogen bonds are stronger than ordinary dipole-dipole attractions, but weaker than normal covalent and ionic bonds. The very electronegative atoms (X andYin Figure 3.26) are usually fluorine, oxygen or nitrogen. Properties of Substances with Hydrogen Bonding Solubility in Water Ammonia is very soluble in water as it forms hydrogen bonds with the water molecules (Figure 3.27). hydrogen bonds Figure 3.27