Ethanol ( ) and dimethyl ether ( ) have identical atomic compositions and similar…
CHEMISTRY · Single correct · A Level · Chemistry · Bonding · Bonding
Problem
Ethanol (C2H5OH) and dimethyl ether (CH3OCH3) have identical atomic compositions and similar molar masses, yet ethanol is completely miscible with water whereas dimethyl ether is only sparingly soluble. Which of the following best explains this difference?
(a) Ethanol can both donate and accept hydrogen bonds with water, whereas dimethyl ether cannot donate hydrogen bonds.
(b) Ethanol is more polar than dimethyl ether, so its stronger dipole–dipole interactions with water make it fully miscible.
(c) Dimethyl ether’s low boiling point causes it to vaporize before it can appreciably dissolve, limiting its observed solubility.
(d) Ethanol ionizes in water to form ions that are highly solvated, while dimethyl ether remains covalent and therefore less soluble.