QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
Why doesn't oil mix with water?
A. Nonpolar molecules repel water molecules.
B. Polar molecules repel nonpolar molecules.
C. Polar molecules attract one another.
D. Nonpolar molecules attract one another.
E. Both (A) and (D).
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Answer
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Step 1:Let's solve this step by step:
Step 2:: Understand the fundamental properties of molecules
- Molecules can be classified as polar or nonpolar based on their electron distribution - Polarity depends on the electronegativity difference between atoms in a molecule
Step 3:: Analyze water molecules
- Water ($$H_2O$$) is a polar molecule
- Oxygen has a higher electronegativity than hydrogen - This creates an uneven electron distribution, making water polar - Polar molecules have a slight positive and negative charge
Step 4:: Analyze oil molecules
- Oil is typically composed of hydrocarbon chains - Hydrocarbons are nonpolar molecules - They have an even electron distribution - No significant charge separation exists
Step 5:: Explain molecular interactions
- Polar molecules (like water) are attracted to other polar molecules - Nonpolar molecules (like oil) are attracted to other nonpolar molecules - Polar and nonpolar molecules repel each other
Step 6:: Determine the correct answer
- Option A states: "Nonpolar molecules repel water molecules" - Option D states: "Nonpolar molecules attract one another" - Both statements are correct
Final Answer
Both (A) and (D) are correct explanations for why oil doesn't mix with water.
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