Multiple Choice
Which property of water allows it to dissolve many of the gases found in the air that we breathe, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide?
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3. Water
Properties of Water- The Universal Solvent
Multiple Choice
Why is water referred to as the universal solvent?
A
Because it has a high boiling point compared to other solvents.
B
Because it is the only liquid found on Earth.
C
Because its polar molecules can dissolve many ionic and polar substances.
D
Because it can dissolve all substances, including nonpolar molecules.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of a solvent: A solvent is a substance that dissolves other substances (solutes) to form a solution. Water is often referred to as the universal solvent due to its unique chemical properties.
Learn about water's polarity: Water molecules are polar, meaning they have a partial positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a partial negative charge on the oxygen atom. This polarity allows water to interact with and dissolve ionic and polar substances.
Explore how water dissolves ionic substances: When ionic compounds (e.g., NaCl) are placed in water, the positive and negative ions are attracted to the opposite charges of the water molecules. This interaction breaks the ionic bonds and disperses the ions in the solution.
Understand how water dissolves polar substances: Polar molecules have regions of partial positive and negative charges, which can interact with the polar water molecules. This allows water to surround and separate the polar molecules, effectively dissolving them.
Clarify the limitation: While water is excellent at dissolving ionic and polar substances, it cannot dissolve nonpolar molecules (e.g., oils) effectively because there is no charge interaction between nonpolar molecules and water's polar molecules.
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