Which factor is most important in determining the solubility of a compound in $H_{2}O$?

• A. Molecular weight of the compound
• B. Polarity of the compound
• C. Color of the compound
• D. Presence of a chiral center

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that solubility in water is primarily influenced by the ability of a compound to interact with water molecules. Water is a polar solvent, so it tends to dissolve polar substances well.
2. Recognize that polarity refers to the distribution of electrical charge over the atoms in a molecule. Polar molecules have regions of partial positive and negative charge, which can interact favorably with the polar water molecules.
3. Consider the molecular weight of a compound. While it can affect solubility, it is not as significant as polarity. Larger molecules may have more difficulty dissolving, but if they are polar, they can still be soluble.
4. Evaluate the color of a compound. This is generally unrelated to solubility. Color is often due to the presence of certain functional groups or conjugated systems, but it does not affect how a compound interacts with water.
5. Assess the presence of a chiral center. Chirality can influence the biological activity and physical properties of a compound, but it does not directly affect solubility in water. The key factor remains the polarity of the compound.