In which solvent does sodium acetate 1CH COONa2 have the highest solubility (a) Acetone CH3OCH3 (b) Methanol (CH3OH) (c) Ethanol (CH3CH2OH) (d) Pentane (CH3CH2CH2CH2CH3)

Key Concepts

Solubility Principles

Solubility refers to the ability of a solute to dissolve in a solvent at a given temperature and pressure. It is influenced by factors such as temperature, pressure, and the nature of the solute and solvent. Polar solutes tend to dissolve well in polar solvents, while nonpolar solutes are more soluble in nonpolar solvents, following the principle 'like dissolves like'.

Polarity of Solvents

Polarity is a key factor in determining solubility. Polar solvents, such as water and alcohols, have molecules with significant dipole moments, allowing them to interact favorably with ionic or polar solutes like sodium acetate. In contrast, nonpolar solvents, such as pentane, lack these dipole interactions and are less effective at dissolving ionic compounds.

Ionic Compounds in Solvents

Ionic compounds, such as sodium acetate, dissociate into ions when dissolved in a solvent. The solubility of these compounds is greatly affected by the solvent's ability to stabilize the ions. Solvents that can form hydrogen bonds or have high dielectric constants, like methanol and ethanol, are generally better at dissolving ionic compounds compared to nonpolar solvents like pentane.