Solubility Curves

Front

What is a saturated solution?

Back

A saturated solution is one in which the maximum amount of solute has been dissolved in a solvent at a given temperature.

Front

What is an unsaturated solution?

Back

An unsaturated solution is one that contains less solute than can be dissolved at a given temperature.

Front

What is a supersaturated solution?

Back

A supersaturated solution is one that contains more solute than can normally be dissolved at a given temperature, often achieved by heating the solution and then cooling it.

Front

How does temperature affect solubility?

Back

Generally, for most solids, solubility increases with temperature, meaning more solute can be dissolved in the solvent.

Front

What is the solubility of KCl at 70ºC?

Back

At 70ºC, the solubility of KCl is approximately 60g per 100g of water.

Front

What is the solubility of NaNO3 at 40ºC?

Back

At 40ºC, the solubility of NaNO3 is approximately 60g per 100g of water.

Front

How do you determine if a solution is saturated?

Back

A solution is saturated if additional solute does not dissolve and settles at the bottom.

Front

What is the formula for calculating the amount of solute needed for saturation?

Back

The amount of solute needed for saturation can be calculated using the solubility data at a specific temperature.

Front

What is the significance of solubility curves?

Back

Solubility curves graphically represent the relationship between solubility and temperature for different solutes.

Front

What happens when a supersaturated solution is disturbed?

Back

When a supersaturated solution is disturbed, the excess solute often crystallizes out of the solution.