Wax is a nonpolar substance. In which type of solvent is wax most soluble?

• A. Nonpolar solvents
• B. Polar solvents
• C. Aqueous acids
• D. Ionic solutions

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the principle 'like dissolves like,' which means substances tend to dissolve best in solvents that have similar polarity to themselves.
2. Identify the polarity of wax: since wax is a nonpolar substance, it will dissolve better in solvents that are also nonpolar.
3. Consider the options given: nonpolar solvents, polar solvents, aqueous acids, and ionic solutions. Polar solvents, aqueous acids, and ionic solutions are generally polar or charged.
4. Since wax is nonpolar, it will not dissolve well in polar or ionic solvents due to the lack of favorable interactions.
5. Therefore, wax is most soluble in nonpolar solvents because their similar nonpolar nature allows for better intermolecular interactions and solubility.