Question

What is responsible for the solubility of alcohol?

Answer 1

Solubility of alcohol

• The general formula of alcohol is $\mathrm{R}-\mathrm{OH}$
• The alcoholic group, i.e., the $-\mathrm{OH}$ group in alcohol is responsible for its solubility and polarity.
• The structure of an alcohol contains a carbon chain (the non polar end) along with the $-\mathrm{OH}$ group (the polar end, due to the presence of an electronegative oxygen atom).

Solubility of alcohol in water

• Alcohols are soluble in water.
• The hydroxy group present in alcohol is involved in hydrogen bonding with water molecules.
• Alcohols with shorter carbon chain are more soluble in water as compared to those with longer carbon chain.