Question

The solubility of alcohols in water gradually increases with molecular weight.

• A. True
• B. False

Answer 1

The correct option is B False

As the hydrocarbon chain becomes longer, the alcohol becomes less soluble in water. One end of the alcohol molecules has so much nonpolar character it is said to be hydrophobic (literally, "water-hating"). The other end contains an hydroxyl group that can form hydrogen bonds to neighboring water molecules and is therefore said to be hydrophilic (literally, "water-loving"). As the hydrocarbon chain becomes longer, the hydrophobic character of the molecule increases, and the solubility of the alcohol in water gradually decreases until it becomes essentially insoluble in water.

Hence, false.