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Ch.13 - Properties of Solutions
Chapter 13, Problem 29

Common laboratory solvents include acetone (CH3COCH3), methanol (CH3OH), toluene (C6H5CH3), and water. Which of these is the best solvent for nonpolar solutes?

Verified step by step guidance
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Step 1: Understand the concept of polarity. Polarity in chemistry refers to the distribution of electric charge around atoms, chemical groups, or molecules. Polar molecules have a significant difference in electronegativity between their atoms, leading to a dipole moment.
Step 2: Recall the principle 'like dissolves like'. This principle suggests that polar solvents are good at dissolving polar solutes, and nonpolar solvents are good at dissolving nonpolar solutes.
Step 3: Identify the polarity of each solvent. Acetone (CH3COCH3) is polar due to its carbonyl group. Methanol (CH3OH) is polar because of its hydroxyl group. Toluene (C6H5CH3) is nonpolar due to its hydrocarbon structure. Water is highly polar due to its bent shape and hydrogen bonding.
Step 4: Determine which solvent is nonpolar. Based on the structures, toluene (C6H5CH3) is the nonpolar solvent among the options provided.
Step 5: Conclude that toluene is the best solvent for nonpolar solutes, as it shares similar nonpolar characteristics, allowing it to effectively dissolve nonpolar substances.