Would benzene (C₆H₆), a nonpolar solvent, dissolve CH₄?
yes
To determine if a nonpolar solvent like benzene (C₆H₆) would dissolve CH₄, we need to consider the polarity of CH₄.
Methane (CH₄) is a nonpolar molecule because the bonds between carbon and hydrogen are relatively nonpolar, and the molecule is symmetrical. In CH₄, the carbon atom is surrounded by four hydrogen atoms, and the electron distribution is symmetrical around the carbon atom. As a result, the molecule has no distinct positive or negative ends and does not possess a net dipole.
Since both benzene and methane are nonpolar molecules, they are likely to mix and dissolve each other to some extent. However, it is important to note that benzene is a liquid, while methane is a gas at room temperature and standard pressure. Therefore, benzene can dissolve small amounts of CH₄, but it may not be as effective as other solvents that have a similar polarity to methane, such as other nonpolar organic solvents or gases.
The solubility of methane in benzene depends on various factors, including temperature and pressure. It is generally expected that as the temperature decreases or the pressure increases, the solubility of methane in benzene would increase. However, the solubility may still be limited due to the mismatch in physical states between benzene (liquid) and methane (gas).
Experimental data or phase equilibrium diagrams can provide more accurate information on the solubility of methane in benzene under specific conditions.