Question

We have learned in this chapter that many ionic solids dissolve in water as strong electrolytes; that is, as separated ions in solution. Which statement is most correct about this process? (a) Water is a strong acid and therefore is good at dissolving ionic solids. (b) Water is good at solvating ions because the hydrogen and oxygen atoms in water molecules bear partial charges. (c) The hydrogen and oxygen bonds of water are easily broken by ionic solids.

Short answer

The most correct statement about why ionic solids dissolve in water as strong electrolytes is option (b): "Water is good at solvating ions because the hydrogen and oxygen atoms in water molecules bear partial charges." This is because water is a polar molecule with partial charges that can interact with ions, helping to dissolve ionic solids.

Step-by-step solution

Evaluate Option (a)

Consider the statement: "Water is a strong acid and therefore is good at dissolving ionic solids." Water is not a strong acid; in fact, it is considered neutral with a pH of 7. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.

Evaluate Option (b)

Consider the statement: "Water is good at solvating ions because the hydrogen and oxygen atoms in water molecules bear partial charges." This statement is true. Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has a positive and a negative side (or partial charges). These partial charges can interact with ions, which helps to dissolve ionic solids. This statement appears to be a correct explanation for why ionic solids dissolve in water as strong electrolytes.

Evaluate Option (c)

Consider the statement: "The hydrogen and oxygen bonds of water are easily broken by ionic solids." This statement is not entirely correct. Although the hydrogen and oxygen bonds of water can be broken by ionic solids, it is the attraction between water molecules and ions that leads to the dissolution of the ionic solid, not the breaking of hydrogen and oxygen bonds within the water molecules.

Conclusion

Based on our evaluations of the three statements, the most correct statement about why ionic solids dissolve in water as strong electrolytes is option (b): "Water is good at solvating ions because the hydrogen and oxygen atoms in water molecules bear partial charges."