Question

Which of the following would be most soluble in hexane C6H14?

a. Isobutane, HC(CH3)3

b. Calcium chloride, CaCl2

c. Ethanol, CH3CH2OH

d. Acetic Acid, HC2H3O2

Answer 1

Hexane is an alkane which is nonpolar in nature. We know that like dissolves like meaning that nonpolar solvents dissolve the nonpolar solutes well and polar solutes or ionic compounds are generally soluble in polar solvents like water. calcium chloride is an ionic compound so is soluble in polar solvents. Ethanol is a polar compound capable of forming hydrogen bonds so it is soluble in water. Acetic acid is also a polar compound and is soluble in water or polar solvents. Isobutane is nonpolar and it tends to be soluble in nonpolar solvents like hexanee. So the most soluble solute in hexane among the given options is isobutane.

Correct option is :

a) Isobutane.