Which of the following statements is true about the solubility of N_2 (g) in CH_3OH (l)?

• A. N_2 (g) is only slightly soluble in CH_3OH (l) due to weak intermolecular interactions.
• B. N_2 (g) is highly soluble in CH_3OH (l) because both are polar substances.
• C. N_2 (g) is insoluble in CH_3OH (l) under all conditions.
• D. N_2 (g) reacts with CH_3OH (l) to form a new compound, increasing its solubility.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the nature of the substances involved: N_2 (g) is a nonpolar molecule, while CH_3OH (methanol) is a polar solvent with hydrogen bonding capabilities.
2. Recall the general solubility rule: 'like dissolves like,' meaning polar solvents tend to dissolve polar or ionic solutes well, and nonpolar solvents dissolve nonpolar solutes well.
3. Analyze the intermolecular interactions: Since N_2 is nonpolar and CH_3OH is polar, the interactions between N_2 molecules and CH_3OH molecules are weak (mainly dispersion forces), leading to low solubility.
4. Consider chemical reactivity: N_2 is very stable and inert under normal conditions, so it does not react with CH_3OH to form new compounds that would increase solubility.
5. Conclude that N_2 is only slightly soluble in CH_3OH due to weak intermolecular forces, consistent with the principle that nonpolar gases have limited solubility in polar solvents.