Table of contents

1. Intro to General Chemistry3h 48m
2. Atoms & Elements4h 16m
3. Chemical Reactions4h 10m
4. BONUS: Lab Techniques and Procedures1h 36m
5. BONUS: Mathematical Operations and Functions48m
6. Chemical Quantities & Aqueous Reactions3h 53m
7. Gases3h 49m
8. Thermochemistry2h 37m
9. Quantum Mechanics2h 58m
10. Periodic Properties of the Elements3h 9m
11. Bonding & Molecular Structure3h 29m
12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory1h 57m
13. Liquids, Solids & Intermolecular Forces2h 23m
14. Solutions3h 1m
15. Chemical Kinetics2h 53m
16. Chemical Equilibrium2h 29m
17. Acid and Base Equilibrium5h 1m
18. Aqueous Equilibrium4h 47m
19. Chemical Thermodynamics1h 50m
20. Electrochemistry2h 42m
21. Nuclear Chemistry2h 36m
22. Organic Chemistry5h 7m
23. Chemistry of the Nonmetals2h 39m
24. Transition Metals and Coordination Compounds3h 16m

14. Solutions

Solutions: Solubility and Intermolecular Forces

General Chemistry

14. Solutions

Solutions: Solubility and Intermolecular Forces

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Multiple Choice

Which property of water makes it mix well with most solutes?

High molecular weight

Nonpolar nature

Low boiling point

High polarity

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of polarity: Polarity refers to the distribution of electrical charge around atoms, molecules, or chemical groups. A polar molecule has a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other side.

Recognize the structure of water: Water (H₂O) is a polar molecule because it has a bent shape and an uneven distribution of electrons. The oxygen atom is more electronegative than the hydrogen atoms, creating a partial negative charge near the oxygen and a partial positive charge near the hydrogens.

Identify how polarity affects solubility: Polar solvents, like water, are effective at dissolving other polar substances due to the attraction between opposite charges. This is known as 'like dissolves like,' meaning polar solvents dissolve polar solutes well.

Consider the role of hydrogen bonding: Water's polarity allows it to form hydrogen bonds with other molecules, which is a strong type of dipole-dipole interaction. This enhances its ability to dissolve many substances.

Conclude why high polarity is the correct answer: Water's high polarity is the key property that enables it to mix well with most solutes, especially those that are polar or ionic, due to the strong interactions between water molecules and solute particles.