We can predict whether a solute dissolves in a solvent with the rule "like dissolves like." This rule means that
A) a solute with the same diameter as the solvent will dissolve.
B) a solute with the same phase as the solvent will dissolve.
C) a solvent with the same polarity as the solvent will dissolve.
D) a solute with the same mass as the solvent will dissolve.
E) a solute contains some of the same elements as the solvent it will dissolve.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rule "like dissolves like" refers to the similarity in polarity between the solute and solvent. A polar solute will dissolve in a polar solvent, and a nonpolar solute will dissolve in a nonpolar solvent. This is because similar types of molecular interactions occur between molecules of the solute and the solvent when they have similar polarities.

We Can Predict Whether a Solute Dissolves in a Solvent