Solubility of a solid in a liquid refers to the maximum amount of a solid that can dissolve in a given
amount of liquid solvent at a specific temperature and pressure, forming a homogeneous solution.
1. Definition
- It is expressed in g/100 mL, mol/L, or ppm.
2. Factors Affecting Solubility of a Solid in a Liquid
a. Nature of the Solute and Solvent
- Polar solutes dissolve in polar solvents (e.g., salt in water).
- Non-polar solutes dissolve in non-polar solvents (e.g., wax in benzene).
b. Temperature
- Generally, increasing temperature increases solubility of solids (e.g., sugar in hot water).
- Some exceptions exist, like calcium sulfate.
c. Stirring
- Increases the rate of dissolution but does not change solubility.
d. Particle Size
- Smaller particles dissolve faster due to increased surface area.
e. Pressure
- Unlike gases, pressure has little effect on solid solubility.