Factors that Affect Solubility

Front

What is solubility?

Back

Solubility is the ability of a substance (solute) to dissolve in a solvent, forming a homogeneous solution at a specified temperature and pressure.

Front

What factors affect the solubility of solids in liquids?

Back

Factors that affect the solubility of solids include temperature, particle size, stirring (agitation), and the nature of the solute and solvent.

Front

How does temperature affect the solubility of most solids?

Back

An increase in temperature generally increases the solubility of most solids in liquids.

Front

How does temperature affect the solubility of gases?

Back

An increase in temperature generally decreases the solubility of gases in liquids.

Front

What is the effect of particle size on the rate of dissolution?

Back

Smaller particles have a larger surface area, which increases the rate of dissolution compared to larger particles.

Front

What role does agitation play in the dissolution process?

Back

Agitation (shaking or stirring) increases the rate of dissolution by distributing the solute particles throughout the solvent more quickly.

Front

What happens to the solubility of a gas when the pressure increases?

Back

The solubility of a gas in a liquid increases with an increase in pressure, according to Henry's Law.

Front

What is Henry's Law?

Back

Henry's Law states that the amount of gas that dissolves in a liquid is directly proportional to the partial pressure of that gas above the liquid.

Front

How can you slow down the rate at which a gas escapes from a solution?

Back

Storing the solution at a lower temperature or increasing the pressure can slow down the rate at which a gas escapes from a solution.

Front

What is the relationship between temperature and gas solubility?

Back

As temperature decreases, the solubility of gases in liquids generally increases.