Which of the following compounds is the most soluble in water?A) heptanalB) decanoic acidC) cyclobutaneD) diethyl etherE) 2-propanol

The solubility of a compound in water is determined by its ability to form hydrogen bonds with the water molecules. Among the given options, 2-propanol (E) is the most soluble in water. This is because it has a hydroxyl (-OH) group, which can form hydrogen bonds with water.

Here's a step-by-step explanation:

1. Heptanal (A) is a type of aldehyde. Aldehydes are polar due to the presence of a carbonyl group, but they cannot form hydrogen bonds with water as effectively as alcohols or acids.

2. Decanoic acid (B) is a carboxylic acid. It can form hydrogen bonds with water, but its long hydrocarbon chain (10 carbons) makes it less soluble in water.

3. Cyclobutane (C) is a cyclic hydrocarbon. It is nonpolar and cannot form hydrogen bonds with water, making it insoluble in water.

4. Diethyl ether (D) is an ether. Ethers are polar and can form some hydrogen bonds with water, but not as effectively as alcohols or acids.

5. 2-propanol (E) is an alcohol. Alcohols are polar and can form hydrogen bonds with water very effectively due to the presence of a hydroxyl group.

Therefore, 2-propanol is the most soluble in water among the given options.