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Multiple Choice
Which of the following materials is most readily dissolved by water?
A
Calcium carbonate (CaCO3)
B
Iron (Fe)
C
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
D
Sodium chloride (NaCl)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of solubility: Solubility is the ability of a substance to dissolve in a solvent, such as water. Ionic compounds like sodium chloride (NaCl) tend to dissolve readily in water due to the interaction between the ions and water molecules.
Identify the nature of each compound: Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and silicon dioxide (SiO2) are both covalent compounds, which generally have lower solubility in water compared to ionic compounds. Iron (Fe) is a metallic element, which does not dissolve in water under normal conditions.
Consider the ionic nature of sodium chloride: NaCl is an ionic compound composed of sodium ions (Na+) and chloride ions (Cl-). Water, being a polar solvent, can effectively surround and separate these ions, leading to dissolution.
Examine the dissolution process: When NaCl is added to water, the polar water molecules interact with the Na+ and Cl- ions, breaking the ionic bonds and allowing the ions to disperse throughout the solution.
Conclude based on solubility principles: Given the ionic nature of NaCl and the polar nature of water, NaCl is most readily dissolved by water compared to the other materials listed.