Please explain why benzophenone soluble in methyl alcohol. Thanks
Both solvent and solute are somewhat polar.
Benzophenone is soluble in methyl alcohol due to its unique molecular properties. To understand why, we need to consider the intermolecular forces involved.
First, let's examine the structure of benzophenone. Benzophenone consists of a benzene ring (a six-membered carbon ring with alternating single and double bonds) with two phenyl groups attached to either side. It also contains a carbonyl group (C=O) located in the middle of the molecule.
Methyl alcohol, also known as methanol, is a polar solvent. It has a slightly positive charge on its hydrogen atom (H) and a slightly negative charge on its oxygen atom (O).
The solubility of a substance in a particular solvent depends on the strength and compatibility of the intermolecular forces between the solute and the solvent.
In the case of benzophenone and methyl alcohol, there are two main intermolecular forces at work: hydrogen bonding and dipole-dipole interactions.
Benzophenone has a dipole moment due to the polar carbonyl group (C=O) in its structure. The oxygen atom is partially negative, while the carbon atom is partially positive. This dipole moment allows benzophenone to form dipole-dipole interactions with the polar molecules of methyl alcohol.
Moreover, methyl alcohol can form hydrogen bonds with the carbonyl group of benzophenone. The oxygen atom of the carbonyl group is slightly negative, attracting the hydrogen atom of methyl alcohol, which is slightly positive. These hydrogen bonds further strengthen the solubility of benzophenone in methyl alcohol.
To determine the solubility of a substance in a particular solvent, experimental data and solubility parameters are often used. Solubility parameters quantify the compatibility between the solute and solvent by measuring the polarity and intermolecular forces. These parameters can be obtained through various experimental methods.
In summary, benzophenone is soluble in methyl alcohol due to the compatibility of their intermolecular forces. The polar nature and ability to form dipole-dipole interactions and hydrogen bonds make methyl alcohol an appropriate solvent for dissolving benzophenone.