Solubility refers to how well a substance (solute) can dissolve in a solvent. One of the key factors influencing solubility is polarity—the distribution of electric charge within molecules.

The general rule in chemistry is “like dissolves like”:

• Polar solutes (like salt or sugar) dissolve well in polar solvents (like water).
• Nonpolar solutes (like oil or grease) dissolve well in nonpolar solvents (like hexane or benzene).

This happens because polar molecules interact through dipole-dipole attractions or hydrogen bonding, while nonpolar molecules rely on dispersion forces. When the intermolecular forces between solute and solvent are similar in strength and type, the solute dissolves more easily.

Understanding solubility and polarity is crucial in many fields—from designing medicines that dissolve in the bloodstream to choosing the right solvent in industrial and laboratory processes.