Chapter 16, Problem 123A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The reason for the high solubility of hydrogen chloride gas in polar solvents than in non-polar solvents such as benzene is to be determined.

Concept introduction: The ability of certain substances or solutes to make a solution with solvents is solubility. For a molecule to be soluble, it must have similar characteristics as that of the solvent.

Answer to Problem 123A

Hydrogen chloride $\text{HCl}$ has a greater solubility in water because of the reason that it is a polar compound, while benzene is a non-polar compound.

Explanation of Solution

Hydrogen chloride, $\text{HCl}$ is an ionic or polar compound that produces two ions, hydronium, and chloride ions when dissolved in polar solvents. Like dissolves like, which means that polar solutes will dissolve faster in polar solvents. Water is a polar solvent. So hydrogen chloride has a greater solubility in water. But in the case of benzene, it is a non-polar solvent. The solubility of $\text{HCl}$ in benzene will be very less compared to water.

So, the polarity of hydrogen chloride and water is the reason for the increased solubility of hydrogen chloride in water.