What is the Difference Between Aqueous and Nonaqueous Solution?

The main difference between aqueous and nonaqueous solutions lies in the solvent. An aqueous solution is a solution in which water is the solvent, while a nonaqueous solution has a solvent other than water.

Aqueous solutions are formed by dissolving solutes in water and are commonly used for chemical reactions. Examples of aqueous solutions include sodium chloride and aqueous ammonia.

Nonaqueous solutions, on the other hand, use solvents such as ethyl acetate, turpentine, benzene, ether, carbon disulfide, and acetone to dissolve organic compounds. These solvents are used to clean paint brushes, remove nail polish, or dissolve organic substances in various applications.

In summary:

• Aqueous solutions have water as the solvent.
• Nonaqueous solutions have a solvent other than water.

The choice of solvent depends on the polarity of the solutes and the desired reaction conditions. Polar solvents, such as water, dissolve polar and ionic solutes, while nonpolar solvents, such as benzene or carbon tetrachloride, dissolve nonpolar solutes.

Comparative Table: Aqueous vs Nonaqueous Solution

Here is a table comparing the differences between aqueous and nonaqueous solutions:

Aqueous solutions are those where water is the solvent, and they typically dissolve hydrophilic and polar compounds. Examples of aqueous solutions include sugar and salt solutions. On the other hand, nonaqueous solutions use a liquid other than water as the solvent, such as benzene, ether, carbon disulfide, or acetone. These solutions can dissolve both polar and nonpolar compounds, depending on the solvent's polarity. Examples of nonaqueous solutions include a solution of sulfur in carbon disulfide and iodine in alcohol.