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Why is ethanol used in preference to water as the main ingredient of perfume? (A) Ethanol is cheaper to produce - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 5 - 2008 - Paper 1
Question 5
Why is ethanol used in preference to water as the main ingredient of perfume? (A) Ethanol is cheaper to produce. (B) Ethanol has no detectable odour. (C) Ethanol ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Why is ethanol used in preference to water as the main ingredient of perfume? (A) Ethanol is cheaper to produce - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 5 - 2008 - Paper 1
Step 1
C) Ethanol dissolves esters more readily.
Answer
Ethanol is a polar solvent that can effectively dissolve esters used in perfumes. This property allows for the enhancement of scent profiles and ensures the proper mixing of fragrance ingredients, which is essential in perfume formulation. Water, while it is also a solvent, does not dissolve organic compounds like esters as readily as ethanol, making ethanol the preferable choice for this application.