Question

Which compound is most soluble in water?

• A. Ethanal
• B. Chloroethane
• C. Ethanol
• D. Ethylene glycol

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Ethylene glycol

The correct option is D.

Explanation for correct option:

• Ethylene glycol compound consists of two hydroxy groups that form hydrogen bonds with water.
• It has more number of bonds of hydrogen, hence, greater solubility.
• This compound is a diol because it has two -OH groups.

Explanation for incorrect options:

Option(A ):

• Ethanal doesn't form hydrogen bonds with water.
• The hydroxyl groups are absent.
• Less number of hydrogen bonds decrease solubility.

Option(B):

• Chloroethane can't form hydrogen bonds.
• Absence of hydroxyl groups.
• Solubility decreases due to less number of hydrogen bonds.

Option(C):

• Ethanol has only one hydroxyl group (-OH group).
• It is soluble in water but less soluble than ethylene glycol.
• The decrease in solubility is due to less number of hydrogen bonds.

Final answer: The most soluble compound is Ethylene glycol.