Pentane but Would you expect hexane to be soluble in water? Why? Which is more flammable, hexane or potassium sulfate? Draw the condensed structural formula of hexane. Why are 1-chlorobutane and 2-chlorobutane structural isomers?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Would you expect hexane to be soluble in water? Why?
No, hexane is not soluble in water. Hexane is a nonpolar hydrocarbon, while water is a polar molecule. According to the principle “like dissolves like,” polar substances tend to dissolve in polar solvents, and nonpolar substances dissolve in nonpolar solvents. Because hexane lacks polarity and cannot form hydrogen bonds with water, it does not dissolve appreciably in water.
Which is more flammable, hexane or potassium sulfate?
Hexane is significantly more flammable than potassium sulfate. Hexane is a volatile organic compound with a low flash point and a high vapor pressure, making it easily ignitable in air. It burns readily, producing carbon dioxide and water. In contrast, potassium sulfate is an inorganic salt that is stable and non-combustible under normal conditions. It does not burn or support combustion, making it far less flammable than hexane.
Condensed structural formula of hexane:
CH₃(CH₂)₄CH₃
This formula represents a straight-chain alkane with six carbon atoms. The central four CH₂ groups represent the internal carbon atoms, while the CH₃ groups are the terminal methyl groups on either end.
Why are 1-chlorobutane and 2-chlorobutane structural isomers?
1-chlorobutane and 2-chlorobutane are structural isomers because they have the same molecular formula (C₄H₉Cl) but differ in the position of the chlorine atom on the carbon chain. In 1-chlorobutane, the chlorine is attached to the first carbon atom, while in 2-chlorobutane, it is attached to the second carbon. This difference in the connectivity of atoms results in distinct physical and chemical properties, which is the defining characteristic of structural (or constitutional) isomers.
This explanation offers a full and coherent understanding of the chemistry concepts involved, suitable for a high school or early college-level chemistry textbook.
