Module 4 Intro

Module 4—Properties of Solutions

Lesson Summary

 

In this lesson you explored the following essential questions:

• What are saturated solutions?
• How can you predict the solubility of a substance in water?
• How is dynamic equilibrium involved when studying saturated solutions?

In this lesson you learned that solubility is an important aspect of solution chemistry. The solubility of a substance is directly linked to the temperature of the solution, and in the case of gases, external pressure can be a major solubility factor as well. Solubility rules can be used to successfully predict the states of elements and compounds in water. Finally, you learned about dynamic equilibrium, a theoretical explanation of what is happening in a saturated solution at the molecular level.

 

The first three lessons of this unit focused exclusively on qualitative aspects of solution chemistry. In Lessons 4 and 5, you will investigate the quantitative aspects of solutions.

 

Lesson Glossary

 

dynamic equilibrium: the idea that there is a balance between two opposing processes (forward and reverse) occurring at the same rate

 

immiscible: a term used to describe liquids that do not dissolve in each other

 

saturated solution: a solution that contains the maximum quantity of solute for a specified temperature; in which no more solute will dissolve at a specified temperature; at maximum solute concentration

 

solubility: the concentration of a saturated solution at a specified temperature