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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a hydrophobic material?
A
Ethanol
B
Salt
C
Oil
D
Water
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of hydrophobicity: Hydrophobic materials are those that do not mix well with water. They tend to repel water and are usually non-polar substances.
Identify the nature of each substance: Ethanol is a polar molecule and can mix with water, making it hydrophilic. Salt (sodium chloride) is ionic and dissolves in water, also making it hydrophilic. Water is polar and mixes with itself, so it is not hydrophobic.
Consider the properties of oil: Oil is a non-polar substance, which means it does not mix with water. This characteristic makes oil hydrophobic.
Compare the substances: Based on the definitions and properties, oil is the only substance among the options that is hydrophobic.
Conclude that oil is the correct answer as it is the only material that does not mix with water and exhibits hydrophobic properties.