Why does 1 cup water 1 cup rubbing alcohol equal less than 2 cups?

Answer 1

When you mix 1 cup of water with 1 cup of rubbing alcohol, the total volume of the mixture will be less than 2 cups due to a phenomenon called "partial molar volume." Water and rubbing alcohol have different molecular sizes and structures, leading to a decrease in the total volume when mixed together. The molecules of water and rubbing alcohol pack differently when in close proximity, causing them to occupy less space collectively compared to when they are separate. This results in the final volume being less than the sum of the individual volumes of water and rubbing alcohol.

Answer 2

Because water and rubbing alcohol are mutually soluble. Liquids have quite a bit of empty space between the molecules. When something is soluble, its molecules will fit in the spaces between the molecules of the liquid. So water molecules fit in beween alcohol molecules, alcohol molecules fit in between water molecules, and the mixture takes up less room than the 2 separate liquids.

Answer 3

When you mix equal volumes of water and rubbing alcohol, the total volume will be less than the sum of the individual volumes. This is because the molecules of each substance fill in the spaces between the molecules of the other substance, resulting in a more compact arrangement and reduced overall volume.