Final answer:
HOCH2CH2CH2CH2OH (1,4-butanediol) is expected to be more soluble in water than CH3CH2CH2CH2OH (butanol) because 1,4-butanediol contains two hydroxyl groups, allowing it to form more extensive hydrogen bonds with water.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering which of the two molecules, CH3CH2CH2CH2OH (butanol) or HOCH2CH2CH2CH2OH (1,4-butanediol), is more soluble in water, we must inspect their molecular structures and identify the features that govern solubility in polar solvents like water.
The principle 'like dissolves like' applies here, meaning polar molecules are generally soluble in polar solvents and nonpolar molecules in nonpolar solvents. Water, being a polar solvent, will more likely dissolve substances that can form strong hydrogen bonds with its molecules.
Both compounds under consideration have hydroxyl (-OH) groups, which can form hydrogen bonds with water, but 1,4-butanediol has two such groups. Consequently, 1,4-butanediol can engage in more extensive hydrogen bonding with water, which significantly increases its solubility.