Asphalt is a mixture of high molecular weight hydrocarbons. Which solvent would be best for removing asphalt from a newly paved road off the bottom of a pair of shoes?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since asphalt is a hydrocarbon, a nonpolar solvent like octane would be most effective at dissolving it and removing it from the shoes. Water and methanol are polar solvents and would not be as effective. NaCl(aq) is a salt solution and is not a solvent that would dissolve asphalt.

Asphalt Is a Mixture of High Molecular Weight Hydrocarbons