What shape of a molecule generally results in lower water solubility?

Linear molecules tend to exhibit lower water solubility compared to other molecular shapes due to their greater potential for hydrophobic interactions. Linear structures can often have longer hydrocarbon chains or functional groups that are less polar than those in branched, cyclic, or spherical molecules. The extended nature of linear molecules can lead to a higher surface area that interacts poorly with water molecules, making them less soluble.

In contrast, branched molecules can become more compact and have polar functional groups distributed more effectively to interact with water, enhancing solubility. Cyclic molecules can also engage in significant interactions with water depending on their functional groups and overall polarity. Spherical molecules, often more compact and symmetrical, can also facilitate interactions with water due to their shape, allowing for a more suitable fit within the solvent. Therefore, the linear structure leads to a packing that generally favors hydrophobic characteristics, contributing to reduced solubility in water compared to the other shapes mentioned.