Term |
Definition |
solvent |
The solvent is the component whose phase is retained when the solution forms; if all components are the same phase, the one in the greatest amount is the solvent. If one of the components is water, water is always the solvent. |
solute |
The solute is the component(s) in the smallest amount. |
dissolution |
The process of a solute dissolving in a solvent is called dissolution (dissolving). |
concentration |
The concentration of the solution is the amount of solute in a given amount of solvent. |
unsaturated |
Is a solution which can dissolve more solute. |
saturated |
Is a solution with the dissolved solute in equilibrium with the undissolved solute. |
supersaturated |
Is a solution holding more dissolved solute than would be in equilibrium with the undissolved solute |
1. It is a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances.
2. It can be colorless, or exhibit color, but is transparent.
3. The solute is uniformily distributed throughout the solvent and will not settle out in time.
4. The solute can be separated from the solvent by physical means.
Solute |
Solvent |
gas |
gas |
gas |
liquid |
liquid |
liquid |
solid |
liquid |
gas |
solid |
liquid |
solid |
solid |
solid |
1) solvent-solvent intermolecular attractions
2) solute-solute intermolecular attractions
3) solute-solvent intermolecular attractions
1) Change in enthalpy (exothermic or endothermic) in the solution process
2) Change in entropy (measure of disorder)