A liquid that will dissolve fat is

Analysis

The question asks for a substance capable of dissolving fat. In chemistry, the principle of "like dissolves like" is key: polar solvents dissolve polar solutes, and non-polar solvents dissolve non-polar solutes. Fats and oils are non-polar organic compounds.

Concept Explanation

• Polarity: Water is a highly polar solvent. Because fats are non-polar, they do not mix or dissolve in water; instead, they form a separate layer (immiscible).
• Acids/Salts: Hydrochloric acid and calcium hydrochloride are polar/ionic substances. They are generally used for chemical reactions or bleaching, not for dissolving non-polar fats.
• Organic Solvents: Kerosene is a mixture of hydrocarbons. Hydrocarbons are non-polar organic compounds. Since both kerosene and fat are non-polar, kerosene acts as an effective solvent for fats and oils.

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Identify the nature of the solute: Fat is a non-polar organic molecule.
2. Evaluate the options: • A (Hydrochloric acid): An inorganic acid; it will not dissolve fat. • B (Calcium hydrochloride): An inorganic salt; it will not dissolve fat. • C (Kerosene): A non-polar organic solvent (hydrocarbon). It is chemically similar to fat, allowing it to break down and dissolve fat molecules. • D (Water): A polar solvent; it cannot dissolve non-polar fats.
3. Conclusion: Based on the principle of "like dissolves like," kerosene is the correct solvent for fat.

Correct Answer

The correct option is C.

Exam Tip

Whenever you see a question about "dissolving" in Chemistry, remember the golden rule: "Like dissolves like."

• Water dissolves ionic salts and polar substances (like sugar).
• Organic solvents (like kerosene, petrol, benzene, or ethanol) dissolve non-polar substances (like fats, oils, and grease).