Solutions and Solubility

Concentration of Solutions The concentration of a solution describes the relative amounts of the solute and solvent. Concentrated solution contain large amounts of solute. Dilute solutions contain little solute.

Saturated Solution Saturated Solution: A solution which has dissolved the maximum amount of solute at a specific temperature. - It can’t dissolve anymore - Usually some solute visible on the bottom

Solutions Aqueous (aq) = a solution in water Solutions are homogeneous mixtures Can be combinations of solids, liquids, or gases Aqueous (aq) = a solution in water Two parts: Solute – dissolved substance Solvent – does the dissolving

Process of dissolving a solid in a liquid happens on the surface of the solid particle (ex: sugar & water) Water molecules are colliding with sugar crystals

How can I speed up the process of dissolving? Stirring Fresh solvent is continuously brought in contact with the surface of the solute. Stirring only affects rate of dissolving, not the amount dissolved. Increase Temperature Solvent particles move faster and collide with solute particles with more energy and more often. Decrease particle size If solute particles are smaller, they have a higher surface area to interact with the solvent.

Equilibrium In a saturated solution particles dissolving = particles crystallizing

Solubility Chart The maximum amount of solute that will dissolve in a given amount of solvent at a given temperature to produce a saturated solution. Often expressed as grams of solute per 100 g of solvent.

How to read a solubility chart

Supersaturated Solution Unsaturated Solution Solution which contains less dissolved solute than a saturated solution and could dissolve more solute Supersaturated Solution a solution more concentrated than a saturated solution due to some conditions