7.6—Factors that influence the choice of solvents

Understand factors that influence the choice of solvents, including: i water, to dissolve some ionic compounds, in terms of the hydration of the ions ii water, to dissolve simple alcohols, in terms of hydrogen bonding iii water, as a poor solvent for compounds (to include polar molecules such as halogenoalkane), in terms of inability to form hydrogen bonds iv non-aqueous solvents, for compounds that have similar intermolecular forces to those in the solvent.

Use —factors that influence the choice of solvents to connect the rule to the data and decision in the question.

This matters because —factors that influence the choice of solvents determines what can be inferred or chosen; begin with the stated conditions and keep the conclusion tied to the evidence.

Example: apply —factors that influence the choice of solvents to one small, clearly defined case, show the key step or comparison, and explain the result in words.

Boundary: —Factors that influence the choice of solvents is not a universal recommendation. Check the syllabus scope, assumptions, units and the limits of the evidence before generalising.