Which of the following solvents would be classified as aliphatic?

The classification of solvents into aliphatic and aromatic categories is based on their chemical structures. Aliphatic solvents are composed of open-chain hydrocarbons, which can either be saturated or unsaturated. These compounds do not have a benzene ring structure, which is characteristic of aromatic solvents.

Mineral spirits fall into the category of aliphatic solvents because they primarily consist of a mixture of aliphatic hydrocarbons derived from petroleum. They are often used in painting and cleaning applications due to their effective solvent properties and relatively low odor compared to other options.

In contrast, acetone is a ketone and not a hydrocarbon, so it does not fall into the aliphatic category. Benzene, on the other hand, is a well-known aromatic solvent due to its distinct ring structure. Decane, while an aliphatic hydrocarbon, may confuse some as it is not commonly classified as a solvent in practical applications like mineral spirits. The focus here is that mineral spirits are widely recognized specifically for their use and properties as a solvent, thus making them the best example of an aliphatic solvent in this context.