The hydrophobic effect is generally thought to be the result of:
A) minimization of the disruption of the normal structure of water by hydrophobic molecules.
B) repulsive forces between polar water and nonpolar hydrophobic molecules.
C) maximization of order in the mixture of water and hydrophobic molecules.
D) all of the above
E) none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The hydrophobic effect is caused by the tendency of water molecules to form a more ordered structure around nonpolar molecules (minimization of disruption of normal structure of water). This effect is driven primarily by entropic considerations, although there may also be some contribution from enthalpy. Repulsive forces between polar water and nonpolar molecules may also play a role, but they are not the primary cause of the hydrophobic effect. The maximization of order in the mixture of water and hydrophobic molecules is consistent with the idea that the hydrophobic effect is a manifestation of entropy-driven phenomena. Thus, choice A is the best answer.

The Hydrophobic Effect Is Generally Thought to Be the Result