In this chapter, you will learn to: / explain the terms solute, solvent and solution and how they relate to each other
/ measure the solubility of different solids at various temperatures
/ compare the concentration of solutions using solubility curves
/ explain the difference between dilute, concentrated and saturated solutions.
Solutions
When a substance dissolves in a liquid, its particles break up and move to fill the spaces between the particles of the liquid. This means that the two different types of particles are completely mixed up.
Fig. 18.1 shows how sugar dissolves in water. At first, the sugar particles are visible in the water. When it is left for a period of time or stirred, the particles will mix with the water.
Lump of sugar
)Fig. 18.1 Sugar dissolving in water
The substance that dissolves is called the solute. The substance the solute dissolves into is called the solvent. A solution is formed when a solute dissolves in a solvent.
Substances that can dissolve in a liquid are soluble. Solids that cannot dissolve in a liquid are insoluble.
? TEST TUBE
1. Identify the solute and the solvent in the following solutions: a. Seawater b. Sparkling water c. A cup of instant coffee