What is the major force that drives nonpolar substances out of aqueous solution?
A) Increased enthalpy of hydrophobic bonds formed between solute molecules.
B) Decreased entropy of newly organized solute molecules.
C) Increased entropy of newly organized solute molecules.
D) Increased enthalpy of H-bonds in the solvent water.
E) Increased entropy of solvent water molecules.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The major force that drives nonpolar substances out of aqueous solutions is the increased entropy of solvent water molecules. When nonpolar substances are introduced into water, the water molecules organize themselves around the nonpolar molecules in a highly structured manner, which decreases the overall entropy of the system. However, when nonpolar substances aggregate and minimize their contact with water, the water molecules are less restricted and can move more freely, thus increasing the entropy of the water. This increase in entropy is thermodynamically favorable and drives the hydrophobic effect, which is the tendency of nonpolar substances to come out of aqueous solution and minimize their contact with water.

What Is the Major Force That Drives Nonpolar Substances Out