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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements best explains why ionic solids dissolve in water?
A
Ionic solids dissolve in water only if the temperature is above 100°C.
B
Water molecules are nonpolar and repel the ions, causing them to disperse.
C
Ionic solids dissolve in water because water forms covalent bonds with the ions.
D
Water molecules are polar and can surround and stabilize the separated ions from the solid.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the nature of ionic solids: Ionic solids are composed of positive and negative ions held together by strong electrostatic forces called ionic bonds.
Recognize the polarity of water molecules: Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has a partial positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a partial negative charge on the oxygen atom.
Explain the interaction between water and ionic solids: When an ionic solid is placed in water, the polar water molecules interact with the positive and negative ions in the solid.
Describe the process of dissolution: Water molecules surround the individual ions, with the oxygen side facing positive ions and the hydrogen side facing negative ions, stabilizing them in solution. This process is called hydration or solvation.
Conclude why ionic solids dissolve: Because water molecules stabilize the separated ions, they overcome the ionic bonds in the solid, causing the ionic solid to dissolve.