Final answer:
1,4-butanediol is expected to be soluble in water at room temperature due to its ability to form hydrogen bonds via its hydroxyl groups, despite its high boiling point.
Step-by-step explanation:
The boiling point of 1,4-butanediol is high at 230°C, indicating strong intermolecular forces. Based on its structure, we can predict its solubility in water. 1,4-butanediol has two hydroxyl (-OH) groups, which can form hydrogen bonds with water. Hydrogen bonding increases solubility in water. Hence, despite its relatively high boiling point, 1,4-butanediol is expected to be soluble in water at room temperature thanks to the hydrogen bonding capability of its hydroxyl groups.
It is useful to understand that alcohols with four or fewer carbon atoms are usually water-soluble because their hydroxyl groups can engage in hydrogen bonding with water molecules. This overcomes the hydrophobic nature of the carbon chain up to a certain length. As a compound increases in size, its hydrophobic characteristics start to dominate, and solubility in water typically decreases.