Chemistry: Solutions and Solubility

Solutions and Solubility

• A solution is a homogeneous mixture of two or more components, with uniform composition and properties throughout.
• The component present in the largest quantity is known as the solvent, which determines the physical state of the solution.
• One or more components present in the solution, other than the solvent, are called solutes.

Factors Affecting Solubility

• Solubility of a substance depends on the nature of the solute and solvent, as well as temperature and pressure.
• Temperature: solubility of gases in liquids decreases with an increase in temperature.
• Pressure: solubility of gases in liquids increases with an increase in pressure.

Henry's Law

• States that, at a constant temperature, the solubility of a gas in a liquid is directly proportional to the partial pressure of the gas present above the surface of the liquid or solution.
• Mathematically, Henry's Law can be represented as: solubility ∝ partial pressure of the gas.

Effect of Pressure on Solubility

• Increasing pressure over the solution phase increases the number of gaseous particles per unit volume over the solution.
• This leads to an increase in the rate at which gaseous particles strike the surface of the solution, resulting in an increase in solubility.
• A new equilibrium is reached, resulting in an increase in the pressure of the gas above the solution and its solubility.

This quiz covers the fundamentals of solutions, including homogeneous mixtures, solvents, solutes, and solubility. It explores the composition and properties of solutions and the physical state of solvents.