Water is a polar covalent compound composed of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. The electrons in the covalent bonds are shared unequally, with the hydrogen side being partially positive and the oxygen side being partially negative. This gives water molecules a polar nature. Water exhibits both cohesion, the attraction of water molecules to one another, and adhesion, the attraction of water molecules to other substances. Due to its high surface tension, water forms a "skin" on its surface that requires a force to break. When placed in a glass, the water curves up the sides due to surface tension forming a meniscus.