Question

Which compound in each pair is more water soluble? Which compound in each pair is more soluble in an organic solvent?

(a) CH3CH2CH2CH3 or CH3CH2CH2CH2CO2H

(b) CH3(CH2)4COOH or CH3(CH2)4COO–Na+.

Answer 1

(a) CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₃ is more soluble in non-polar organic solvents because it is also non-polar. CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₂CO₂H is more soluble in water than CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₃.

(b) CH₃(CH₂)₄COOH is more soluble in organic solvents. CH₃(CH₂)₄COO^–Na⁺ is more soluble in water because of its ionic nature.