Solutions & Solubility

Front

What is a solution?

Back

A solution is a homogeneous mixture composed of two or more substances, where one substance (the solute) is dissolved in another (the solvent).

Front

What is solubility?

Back

Solubility is the ability of a substance (solute) to dissolve in a solvent at a given temperature and pressure.

Front

What is the difference between polar and nonpolar substances?

Back

Polar substances have a significant difference in electronegativity between atoms, leading to a dipole moment, while nonpolar substances have an even distribution of electrical charge.

Front

What is an example of a nonpolar substance that cannot form a solution in water?

Back

An oil spill in the ocean is an example of a nonpolar substance that cannot form a solution in water.

Front

How many particles are formed when CH3OH (methanol) dissolves in water?

Back

1 particle.

Front

How many particles are formed when CaBr2 (calcium bromide) dissolves in water?

Back

3 particles (1 Ca^2+ and 2 Br^- ions).

Front

What effect does stirring have on the solubility of a solute?

Back

Stirring increases the rate of solubility by distributing the solute particles throughout the solvent more quickly.

Front

What factors affect the solubility of a substance?

Back

Factors include temperature, surface area, agitation (stirring), and the amount of solvent.

Front

How does temperature affect solubility?

Back

Generally, increasing the temperature increases the solubility of solids in liquids, while the solubility of gases decreases with increasing temperature.

Front

What is the role of surface area in the solubility of a solute?

Back

Increasing the surface area of a solute (e.g., by crushing it) allows more solute particles to interact with the solvent, increasing the rate of dissolution.