Question

Why does a higher temperature usually lead to a solute dissolving faster?

the molecules move faster
intermolecular bonds form
the surface area of the solvent increases
the molecules collide less

Answer 1

A higher temperature usually leads to a solute dissolving faster primarily because **the molecules move faster**. When the temperature of the solvent increases, the kinetic energy of the molecules increases as well. This increased movement results in more frequent and more energetic collisions between the solvent molecules and the solute particles, facilitating the breaking of intermolecular bonds in the solute and allowing it to dissolve more rapidly.

The other options are not accurate for explaining why increased temperature enhances the rate of dissolution:

- **Intermolecular bonds form**: While intermolecular interactions do occur, they are not the reason for faster dissolution; breaking bonds in the solute is what's required for dissolution.
- **The surface area of the solvent increases**: This statement doesn't apply; the surface area of the solvent remains the same; however, the interactions with solute particles are enhanced due to increased molecular motion.
- **The molecules collide less**: This is incorrect; higher temperatures result in more frequent collisions rather than fewer.

So, the correct explanation focuses on increased molecular motion due to higher temperatures.