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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best explains why water dissolves most salts?
A
Water has a low density that facilitates salt dissolution.
B
Water is a polar solvent that can stabilize ions.
C
Water has a high boiling point that allows salts to dissolve.
D
Water is a nonpolar solvent that interacts with salt molecules.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the nature of water: Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other side due to the difference in electronegativity between hydrogen and oxygen atoms.
Recognize the structure of salts: Salts are typically composed of positive and negative ions held together by ionic bonds. When salts dissolve in water, these ions are separated and surrounded by water molecules.
Consider the interaction between water and ions: The polar nature of water allows it to interact with the positive and negative ions of the salt. The partial negative charge of the oxygen atom in water can stabilize positive ions, while the partial positive charge of the hydrogen atoms can stabilize negative ions.
Evaluate the role of solvation: Solvation is the process of surrounding solute particles with solvent molecules. In the case of water dissolving salts, solvation involves water molecules surrounding and stabilizing the ions, which helps to keep them dissolved in solution.
Conclude why water is effective at dissolving salts: Due to its polarity, water can effectively stabilize and solvate ions, making it an excellent solvent for dissolving ionic compounds like salts.