1, Is iodine (I2) polar or nonpolar? Explain.
2, When describing the polarity of substances, the phrase “like dissolves like” is often used.
Explain the meaning of this phrase? Explain it briefly
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
- Is iodine (I2) polar or nonpolar?
Iodine (I2) is a nonpolar molecule. This is because it consists of two identical iodine atoms, which share electrons equally. In covalent bonds, if two atoms of the same element bond, they have the same electronegativity, meaning they pull on the shared electrons equally, resulting in no separation of charge. Thus, there is no dipole moment created, and the molecule as a whole is nonpolar. I2 has a symmetrical linear shape, contributing to its nonpolar nature.
- “Like dissolves like” – Explanation
The phrase “like dissolves like” refers to the principle that solvents tend to dissolve solutes that have similar chemical properties, particularly in terms of polarity. This concept is commonly used in chemistry to predict the solubility of various substances. Here’s how it works:
- Polarity of molecules: Molecules can be polar or nonpolar based on their structure and the electronegativity difference between atoms. Polar molecules have a positive and negative end (dipole), while nonpolar molecules have a uniform charge distribution.
- Solvent-Solute Interaction: In the case of polar solvents, like water, the positive and negative ends of the solvent molecules interact with charged regions of the solute. Polar solutes, such as salt (NaCl), dissolve in polar solvents because the solvent molecules surround and separate the ions in the solute. On the other hand, nonpolar solvents, like oil, are more effective at dissolving nonpolar substances, such as wax or grease, because their nonpolar molecules can interact and mix with each other.
- Why It Matters: “Like dissolves like” explains that solutes with similar polarity will dissolve more readily in each other due to the compatibility of intermolecular forces. Polar solvents cannot easily dissolve nonpolar substances because there is no attraction between the molecules that would encourage them to mix. Similarly, nonpolar solvents have difficulty dissolving polar substances because their molecular structure doesn’t allow for the formation of strong interactions with the solute molecules.
In summary, the phrase “like dissolves like” is based on the observation that substances with similar polarity tend to dissolve in each other, while dissimilar substances do not mix as easily. This concept is crucial for understanding solubility and predicting how substances interact in various environments.