Define solubility and explain the factors that ... - SS1 Chemistry Solutions and Concentration Question

Solubility refers to the ability of a solute to dissolve in a solvent to form a homogeneous mixture called a solution. The solubility of a substance is influenced by several factors:

 

1. Nature of the solute and solvent: The chemical properties of both the solute and the solvent play a significant role in determining solubility. Substances with similar polarities and intermolecular forces are more likely to dissolve in each other. For example, polar solutes tend to dissolve in polar solvents, while nonpolar solutes dissolve better in nonpolar solvents.
2. Temperature: Temperature affects the solubility of most solid solutes in liquid solvents. In general, the solubility of solid solutes increases with an increase in temperature. However, there are exceptions where the solubility decreases with increasing temperature, such as in the dissolution of some gases in water.
3. Pressure: The effect of pressure on solubility is most significant for gases. Henry's law states that the solubility of a gas in a liquid is directly proportional to the partial pressure of the gas above the liquid. Increasing the pressure increases the solubility of gases in liquids.
4. Particle size: Finely divided solutes tend to dissolve more readily than larger particles due to increased surface area. Smaller particle size exposes more solute particles to the solvent, facilitating the dissolution process.
5. Stirring or agitation: Agitation or stirring increases the rate of dissolution by bringing fresh solvent into contact with the solute, allowing for a faster equilibrium to be reached.