The introduction of the nonpolar molecule (toluene) into water results in:
The introduction of the nonpolar molecule (toluene) into water results in:
Select an option to attempt
Correct Answer: Option A
Explanation
Hydrophobic effect and entropy of water:When a nonpolar molecule (e.g., toluene) is introduced into water, it cannot form hydrogen bonds with water. To maintain their hydrogen-bonding network, water molecules around the nonpolar solute organise into highly ordered 'clathrate' (cage-like) structures.• This increased ordering of water molecules DECREASES the entropy of water ().• This entropy decrease is thermodynamically unfavourable and is the primary reason nonpolar molecules have low water solubility.• The process is endothermic in terms of entropy change — not exothermic dissolution.• The 'hydrophobic effect' that drives protein folding and membrane formation is primarily entropy-driven: burying hydrophobic groups releases ordered water, INCREASING entropy.Answer: Decrease in entropy of water (Option 1).