Multiple Choice
Which property of water allows it to dissolve a wide variety of substances, earning it the title 'universal solvent'?
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3. Water
Properties of Water- The Universal Solvent
Multiple Choice
Which property of water allows it to dissolve a wide variety of substances, earning it the title 'universal solvent'?
A
Its high boiling point
B
Its low density as a solid
C
Its ability to absorb infrared radiation
D
Its polarity and ability to form hydrogen bonds
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of water's polarity: Water molecules have a partial positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a partial negative charge on the oxygen atom due to the unequal sharing of electrons in the covalent bonds. This makes water a polar molecule.
Learn about hydrogen bonding: The polarity of water allows it to form hydrogen bonds with other polar molecules or ions. These bonds occur when the partially positive hydrogen atoms of one water molecule are attracted to the partially negative atoms of another molecule or ion.
Explore how polarity and hydrogen bonding contribute to solubility: Water's polarity enables it to interact with and surround charged or polar substances, breaking them apart and dissolving them. For example, in ionic compounds like salt (NaCl), water molecules surround the individual ions, separating them and dissolving the compound.
Compare water's solvent properties to other substances: Water's ability to dissolve a wide variety of substances is due to its polarity and hydrogen bonding, not its boiling point, density as a solid, or ability to absorb infrared radiation. These other properties are unrelated to its role as a solvent.
Conclude why water is called the 'universal solvent': Because of its polarity and ability to form hydrogen bonds, water can dissolve many substances, including salts, sugars, acids, and bases, making it essential for biological processes and earning it the title 'universal solvent.'
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