Which is more soluble in water? Briefly explain why.
Acetic Acid: CH3CO(OH)
OR
Ethanol : CH3CH2OH
I think its acetic acid because when observing its structure it is more polar than ethanol. And when using the like dissolves like rule, a more polar molecule with dissolve in water, which is also polar.
I just want to know if I'm correct or incorrect. Thanks :)
1 answer
I don't know if this is a trick question or not. Your reasoning is sound in that acetic acid is more polar than ethanol; however, both acetic acid and ethanol are miscible with water. Miscible means that the material dissolves in water in all proportions so the question is moot. Neither is more soluble than the other since both dissolve completely in all proportions.
1 answer