NEETChemistryCarboxylic Acid Derivatives
Why does the solubility of higher carboxylic acids decrease as the number of carbon atoms in the molecule increases?
Options
- AThey form covalent bonds with water.
- BThey have increased hydrophobic interactions.
- CThey become more polar.
- DThey have higher vapour pressure.
Correct answer
B. They have increased hydrophobic interactions.
Step-by-step solution
The solubility of higher carboxylic acids decreases because they exhibit increased hydrophobic interactions due to the larger hydrocarbon part of their molecules.