Why do the first four alcohols dissolve readily in water?

Because each alcohol contains a hydroxyl –OH group that can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. These hydrogen bonds allow the alcohol molecules to interact strongly with water, overcoming the alcohol–alcohol interactions and leading to a homogeneous mixture.

The answer explains the molecular basis for alcohol solubility in water, linking the –OH functional group to hydrogen bonding. It tests the same objective by requiring an explanation of the phenomenon. This response is aligned to Alcohols because it explains describe what happens when any of the first four alcohols are added to water using the correct AQA GCSE Chemistry organic context. Keep molecular formula, structural formula, displayed formula, and general formula distinct. Do not confuse alkanes with alkenes, saturated with unsaturated, cracking with combustion, polymers with monomers, or hydrocarbons with oxygen-containing alcohols and carboxylic acids. When formulae are used, preserve the stored notation exactly and explain the GCSE chemistry idea in words rather than using unsupported displayed-formula diagrams.