Why are hydrocarbons insoluble in water?
A) The majority of their bonds are polar covalent carbon-to-hydrogen linkages.
B) The majority of their bonds are nonpolar covalent carbon-to-hydrogen linkages.
C) They are hydrophilic.
D) They exhibit considerable molecular complexity and diversity.
E) They are lighter than water.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hydrocarbons are composed of nonpolar covalent carbon-to-hydrogen linkages, which means they do not have a separation of charge and are therefore not attracted to water molecules, which are polar. This makes hydrocarbons insoluble in water.

Why Are Hydrocarbons Insoluble in Water