The simple rule “Like dissolves like” is often used to describe the solubility of a substance in different solvents. Write a short paragraph discussing your evidence for this rule. Include in your discussion where you think this rule works best and where it seems to be less reliable. Give specific examples to back up your statements.
I understand most of the question but do not get how like dissolves like can be unreliable in any situation PLEASE EXPLAIN!!
MY ANSWER Like dissolves like is a saying used to describe the relationships between solutes and solvents. This statement is used to show that when a substance is mixed with a substance of similar size, functional group, and structure, they are soluble. For example, iodine, which is nonpolar, is insoluble when placed in water, which is polar. In this case, nonpolar solutes are typically soluble in nonpolar solvents and not soluble in polar solvents. In the lab, this rule was most reliable when the solute and solvent had the greatest difference in electronegativity. I think this rule is least reliable when either the solvent or the solute has both
polar and nonpolar characteristics. In these cases, the solubility of the substance may not follow the "like dissolves like" rule. For example, acetone (polar) can dissolve both polar and nonpolar solutes, breaking the rule. Another example is the solubility of fatty acids (nonpolar) in water (polar). While some fatty acids may dissolve in water due to the polar carboxyl group, most fatty acids are insoluble in water.
Understanding the concept behind "like dissolves like" is crucial for determining solubility, but it is not an absolute rule. It provides a useful guideline, especially when considering the similarities in molecular structure and polarity between solute and solvent. However, various factors such as temperature, pressure, and specific molecular interactions can influence solubility, sometimes leading to exceptions to the rule. It is important to consider these factors when studying solubility.