Solubility Curves

A graphical representation showing the amount of solute that can dissolve in a solvent at various temperatures.

A saturated solution contains the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve at a given temperature.

An unsaturated solution is one that can still dissolve more solute at a given temperature.

A supersaturated solution contains more solute than can normally dissolve at a given temperature, often achieved by heating.

Generally, for most solids, solubility increases with temperature, while for gases, solubility decreases.

At 70ºC, the solubility of NaBr is approximately 120g per 100g of water.

At 73ºC, the solubility of NaNO3 is approximately 140g per 100g of water.

If additional solute does not dissolve and settles at the bottom, the solution is saturated.

The solubility of sucrose at 40ºC is approximately 240g per 100g of water.

The solubility of gases typically decreases as temperature increases.