2.10 Solubility

2.10 Solubility

But, why do we care? Some very practical chemistry comes out of knowing the polarity of molecules. For instance, we can begin to predict what solvent is best to dissolve something. Polar solvents tend to dissolve polar compounds and nonpolar solvents dissolve nonpolar compounds. One can remember this by remembering the phrase “Like dissolves like.” For instance, dirt and grease are nonpolar. So, good spot removing cleaners are nonpolar solvents like carbon tetrachloride or hexane.

More polar compounds, like glucose, and ionic compounds like sodium chloride (table salt) are more soluble in more polar solvents like water. Glucose and salt do not dissolve in nonpolar solvents at all!