Physical chemistry (solvation): Why is water a particularly good solvent for ionic salts? Base your choice on the molecular property of H₂O that stabilizes ions in solution. Choose the correct reason.
General Knowledge
General Science
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
Answer
Correct Answer: It has a high dipole moment
Explanation
Given data
- Property of water that explains dissolution of ionic solids.
Concept/Approach Water is a highly polar molecule with a large dipole moment. This strong polarity creates ion–dipole interactions that stabilize separated cations and anions, lowering the free energy of dissolution.
Step-by-step reasoning • Ionic crystal → ions held by lattice energy. • In water, ion–dipole attractions (Hδ⁺ to anions, Oδ⁻ to cations) hydrate the ions. • Hydration energy counteracts lattice energy → salt dissolves.
Final Answer It has a high dipole moment