Answer:

The degree of hydration refers to the number of water molecules that are directly coordinated to a cation in a hydrated compound. It is a measure of the extent of the hydration of the cation.

Explanation:

The size of the cation does indeed influence the degree of hydration. Here's why:

1. Coordination Number:
The size of the cation affects the coordination number, which is the number of atoms or ions immediately surrounding a central atom in a complex or crystal. In hydrated compounds, the cation is usually surrounded by water molecules. The coordination number determines how many water molecules can coordinate with the cation.

2. Ionic Radius:
The size of a cation is determined by its ionic radius. Smaller cations have a higher charge density because the positive charge is concentrated in a smaller space. This higher charge density attracts more water molecules, resulting in a higher degree of hydration. Conversely, larger cations have a lower charge density and can accommodate fewer water molecules, leading to a lower degree of hydration.

3. Electrostatic Interactions:
The degree of hydration also depends on the strength of the electrostatic interactions between the cation and water molecules. Smaller cations with a higher charge density have stronger attractions to water molecules, resulting in a higher degree of hydration. Larger cations with a lower charge density have weaker attractions to water, leading to a lower degree of hydration.

4. Hydration Energy:
The size of the cation also affects the hydration energy, which is the energy released when a cation is hydrated. Smaller cations with a higher charge density have a larger hydration energy because the water molecules can get closer to the cation, resulting in stronger interactions. Larger cations with a lower charge density have a smaller hydration energy because the water molecules are farther away from the cation and the interactions are weaker.

Conclusion:

In summary, the degree of hydration is influenced by the size of the cation. Smaller cations with a higher charge density have a higher degree of hydration due to their higher coordination number, stronger electrostatic interactions, and larger hydration energy. On the other hand, larger cations with a lower charge density have a lower degree of hydration because they can accommodate fewer water molecules and have weaker electrostatic interactions and hydration energy. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'A' - Yes, the degree of hydration depends upon the size of the cation.