Concept:
Solubility of gases in water depends on:
• Polarity
• Ability to form hydrogen bonds
• Chemical interaction with water
Step 1: Analyze gases.
• Formaldehyde $\rightarrow$ Polar, forms hydrogen bonds → highly soluble
• Methane $\rightarrow$ Non-polar → low solubility
• \(CO_2\) $\rightarrow$ Moderately soluble
• Vinyl chloride $\rightarrow$ Low polarity
• Argon $\rightarrow$ Noble gas, very low solubility
Step 2: Select highest solubility.
Formaldehyde has maximum interaction with water.