Question

Which of the following characteristics describes water’s ability to act as nature’s solvent? The polar nature of water molecules allows other polar and ionic substances to dissolve easily in water. The polar nature of water molecules repels hydrophilic compounds, preventing dissolution. The nonpolar nature of water molecules allows polar substances to dissolve easily in water. The polar nature of water molecules attracts hydrophobic compounds, encouraging dissolution. Assessment question An important property of water molecules is their capability to resist separating from one another call

Answer 1

Water's polarity allows it to act as nature's solvent by attracting and dissolving polar and ionic substances. Non-polar substances, like oils and fats, separate from water rather than dissolve in it.

Step-by-step explanation:

As a result of water's polarity, each water molecule attracts other water molecules because of the opposite charges between water molecules, forming hydrogen bonds. Water also attracts or is attracted to other polar molecules and ions. A polar substance that interacts readily with or dissolves in water is referred to as hydrophilic (hydro- = "water"; -philic "loving"). In contrast, non-polar molecules such as oils and fats do not interact well with water, as shown in Figure 2.14 and separate from it rather than dissolve in it, as we see in salad dressings containing oil and vinegar (an acidic water solution). These nonpolar compounds are called hydrophobic (hydro- = "water"; -phobic = “fearing").