Considering the polar character of the water, the correct answer is option A): Water is an excellent solvent for most ionic compounds and polar covalent molecules but not for non-polar compounds because water is a polar molecule.
Water (H₂O) is a compound in which oxygen (O) and hydrogen (H) form pairs of electrons that are strongly attracted to oxygen as it is the most electronegative element. This partial separation of electrical charges polarizes the water molecule, endowing it with a negative and a positive extreme. So the water acquires a polar character.
Considering that polar substances dissolve better in polar solvents, while nonpolar substances dissolve better in nonpolar solvents, the polar character of water makes it an excellent solvent for polar and ionic solutes, which are called hydrophilic.
On the other hand, nonpolar compounds are virtually insoluble in water and therefore hydrophobic.
Finally, the correct answer is option A): Water is an excellent solvent for most ionic compounds and polar covalent molecules but not for non-polar compounds because water is a polar molecule.
Learn more:
