Polar and non-polar compounds and their solubility

In summary, the conversation is about the solubility of naphthalene in liquid ammonia, despite naphthalene being non-polar and ammonia being polar. The question arises from research on naphthalene carry-over in gas systems and there is surprise over articles stating its solubility in liquid ammonia.
  • #1
Rogue
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TL;DR Summary
Hydrocarbon Solubility in Polar solutions
Hi
Please can anyone explain why Naphthalene is soluble in liquid Ammonia when Naphthalene is Non-polar and Ammonia is Polar?
 
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  • #2
Good question. I would expect the solubility to be very low. Where does your question come from? Is this related to some chemical reaction or rather spectroscopy?
 
  • #3
DrDu said:
Good question. I would expect the solubility to be very low. Where does your question come from? Is this related to some chemical reaction or rather spectroscopy?

Hi DrDu, thanks for your response.
The question comes from research into modes of Naphthalene carry-over in gas systems.
I was surprised when I was faced with articles stating Naphthalene to be soluble in Liquid Ammonia.
 

FAQ: Polar and non-polar compounds and their solubility

1. What is the difference between a polar and non-polar compound?

A polar compound is one that has a separation of positive and negative charges due to differences in electronegativity between atoms. This results in an uneven distribution of electrons, making one end of the molecule more negative and the other end more positive. Non-polar compounds, on the other hand, have an even distribution of electrons and no separation of charges.

2. How does polarity affect the solubility of a compound?

Polarity plays a significant role in determining the solubility of a compound. Polar compounds are more likely to dissolve in polar solvents, such as water, because the opposite charges attract each other. Non-polar compounds, on the other hand, are more likely to dissolve in non-polar solvents, such as oil, because they have similar charges and can interact more easily.

3. Can polar and non-polar compounds mix together?

In most cases, polar and non-polar compounds do not mix together. This is because the opposite charges in polar compounds and the similar charges in non-polar compounds repel each other, making it difficult for them to interact and form a solution. However, there are some exceptions where polar and non-polar compounds can mix, such as in the case of emulsions or certain surfactants.

4. How do you determine if a compound is polar or non-polar?

The polarity of a compound can be determined by looking at its molecular structure and the electronegativity of its atoms. If the molecule has a symmetrical shape and all atoms have similar electronegativities, it is likely non-polar. If the molecule has an asymmetrical shape and contains atoms with significantly different electronegativities, it is likely polar.

5. How can you predict the solubility of a compound based on its polarity?

Generally, polar compounds are more soluble in polar solvents and non-polar compounds are more soluble in non-polar solvents. However, there are other factors that can also affect solubility, such as the size and shape of the molecule. It is best to consider all of these factors when predicting the solubility of a compound.

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