Chapter 22.2, Problem 13SSC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The compound which is expected to be more soluble in water needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Polar molecules dissolve in polar solvents. Also, hydrogen bonding between the given compound and water molecules results in the increase in solubility of compound in water.

Answer to Problem 13SSC

Alcohol is more soluble in water than ether.

Explanation of Solution

The given compounds are as follows:

and

The solubility of compound depends on the its polarity and hydrogen bonding. Due to the presence of O atom attached to C atom in ether and H atom in alcohol, both the compounds are polar in nature.

Since, water is a polar compound thus, polar molecules will be soluble in it. Therefore, both ether and alcohol will be soluble in water.

The given ether is dimethylether and alcohol is ethanol thus, the interaction between these molecules and water is represented as follows:

Now, due to the presence of H atom bonded to O atom (electronegative) the alcohol will form hydrogen bonds with water.

This makes alcohols to be more soluble in water as compared to ether.

Conclusion

Thus, alcohol is more soluble in water than ether.