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Why are the smaller alcohols e.g. ethanol more soluble in water?

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User SubjectX
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1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

Smaller alcohols, like ethanol, are more soluble in water due to the ability to engage in hydrogen bonding with water molecules.

Step-by-step explanation:

Smaller alcohols, such as ethanol, are more soluble in water because they can engage in hydrogen bonding with water molecules. The OH group in alcohols allows for the formation of hydrogen bonds with the water molecules, making the alcohols miscible with water. As the carbon chain in alcohols gets longer, the solubility in water decreases.

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User Osum
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