Which of the following solutes will most readily dissolve in H₂O?

• A. HOCH₂CH₂CH₂OH
• B. CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₃
• C. CH₃CH₂CH₂OH
• D. CCl₄
• E. HOCH₂CH₂OH

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the nature of water (H2O) as a solvent: Water is a polar solvent, meaning it has a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other, which allows it to dissolve polar substances and ionic compounds effectively.
2. Examine the structure of each solute to determine its polarity: Polar solutes will dissolve more readily in polar solvents like water due to the 'like dissolves like' principle.
3. Analyze HOCH2CH2CH2OH: This molecule contains hydroxyl (OH) groups, which are polar and can form hydrogen bonds with water, making it likely to dissolve well in water.
4. Consider CH3CH2CH2CH3: This molecule is nonpolar, consisting of only carbon and hydrogen, and lacks any polar functional groups, making it less likely to dissolve in water.
5. Evaluate CH3CH2CH2OH and CCl4: CH3CH2CH2OH has a hydroxyl group, making it polar and more soluble in water than CCl4, which is nonpolar and lacks the ability to form hydrogen bonds with water.