What happens during non-polar solvation (if there is such a thing)?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the concept of non-polar solvation, specifically exploring how non-polar solvents interact with non-polar solutes. Participants seek to understand the molecular mechanisms behind this process, contrasting it with the behavior of polar solvents.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses curiosity about the mechanisms by which non-polar solvents dissolve non-polar solutes, referencing the principle of "like dissolves like."
  • Another participant clarifies that they are not interested in why non-polar solvents do not dissolve polar solutes, but rather in the interactions that facilitate the dissolution of non-polar solutes in non-polar solvents.
  • A third participant suggests that non-polar solvents dissolve non-polar solutes due to sufficient interactions at the molecular level, describing the process as the formation of 'bonds' that surround and pull the solute into solution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the specific mechanisms of non-polar solvation, and the discussion remains exploratory with varying levels of understanding expressed.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about molecular interactions and the nature of solvation are present but not fully articulated, leaving room for further exploration of the topic.

BrainSalad
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I've found plenty of information on polar solvents and how they work, so I understand that. But, according to like-dissolves-like, non-polar solvents dissolve non-polar solutes: how?
 
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So you mean why do non-polar solvents not dissolve polar solutes?
 
qalomel said:
So you mean why do non-polar solvents not dissolve polar solutes?

Not really: I understand that.
I want to know why non-polar solvents DO dissolve non-polar solutes.
 
Non-polar solvents do dissolve non-polar solutes because there are enough interactions between them. So on the molecular level, I think of it as solvent-solute 'bonds' forming until the solute molecules are completely surrounded by solvent molecules, pulling the solute into solution.
 

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