Solvation thermodynamics of cyclohexane

The solvation thermodynamics of cyclohexane in pure liquid phase and in wat er is analyzed by means of the theoretical approach developed by Lee. The s um of the work of cavity creation and the dispersive solute-solvent interac tion energy reproduces well the experimental Gibbs energy values over the w hole temperature range 5-100degreesC. This implies that the purely structur al solvent reorganization is an exactly compensating process in both liquid s. The dispersivesolute-solvent interaction energy is larger in magnitude i n cyclohexane than in water, whereas the work of cavity creation is larger in water than in cyclohexane. Therefore, both terms contrast the transfer o f cyclohexane from pure liquid phase to water, determining its hydrophobici ty. This mechanism qualitatively corresponds to that operative in the case of benzene.