Question

Using the concept of bond polarity and solubility, explain why water (H2O) and
vinegar are miscible, but vinegar and oil are immiscible.

Answer 1

Solubility and Polarity

Explanation:

• Water is a polar molecule because of its bent shape; also, the oxygen in (H2O) is more electronegative than hydrogen atom, thus attracts the electron more strongly and making the molecule polar.
• Similarly, vinegar (acetic acid) is also a polar molecule due to the presence of separation of charges in the molecule.
• Now, we know that "like dissolves in like"; therefore, polar vinegar is easily miscible (soluble) in water (polar solvent).
• On the other hand, oil is a non-polar molecule, and it cannot form inter-molecular bonding with the polar solvent (vinegar) due to its hydrophobic nature; thus, vinegar and oil are immiscible ( non-soluble) in nature.