Question

Which of the following solvents will best dissolve wax, which is a complex mixture of compounds that mostly are CH₃−CH₂−CH₂−CH₂−CH₂-?

A) Pentane (CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₃)
B) Acetone (CH₃COCH₃)
C) Benzene (C₆H₆)
D) Carbon Tetrachloride (CCl₄)

Answer 1

Acetone is the best solvent to dissolve wax. It is a polar solvent that can dissolve both organic compounds and salts.

Step-by-step explanation:

The solvent that will best dissolve wax, which is a complex mixture of compounds that mostly are CH₃−CH₂−CH₂−CH₂−CH₂-, is acetone (CH₃COCH₃). Acetone is a polar solvent that has the ability to dissolve both organic compounds and salts. It has a dipole moment due to the presence of oxygen in its structure, making it a good solvent for polar substances.