A is a mixture of substances, where the is the substance being dissolved into

the . A solution can be , where more solute can be dissolved into the
solvent; , where the maximum amount of solute is dissolved into the solvent;
or , where more solute is in the solution than can be dissolved.
solution solute
solvent unsaturated
saturated
supersaturated
A shows the amount of solute in a saturated solution at different temperatures. Figures
1 and 2 show the solubility curves of different salts.

1 answer

It seems you're discussing the concepts of solutions and solubility, particularly in the context of saturated solutions at varying temperatures. Let's clarify these concepts and prepare a general understanding based on what you provided:

  1. Solution: A homogeneous mixture formed by the dissolution of a solute in a solvent. For example, salt (solute) dissolved in water (solvent).

  2. Solute: The substance that is dissolved in a solution. This is typically present in a smaller amount compared to the solvent.

  3. Solvent: The substance in which the solute is dissolved. It usually makes up a larger portion of the solution.

  4. Types of Solutions:

    • Unsaturated Solution: A solution that can still dissolve more solute at a given temperature. There is not enough solute present to reach saturation.
    • Saturated Solution: A solution that has reached the maximum amount of solute that can be dissolved at a specific temperature. At this point, any additional solute will not dissolve and will remain in the solid state.
    • Supersaturated Solution: A solution that contains more solute than can typically be dissolved at a specific temperature. This state is often achieved through changes in temperature (e.g., heating the solution and then cooling it down without allowing the solute to crystallize out).
  5. Solubility Curves: These graphs plot the amount of solute that can be dissolved in a solvent at different temperatures. Each curve represents a different solute. The key points to note from solubility curves include:

    • The curve's upward trend indicates that the solubility of the solute generally increases with temperature (for most solids).
    • The intersection of the curve with the vertical axis indicates how much solute can be dissolved at a specific temperature.

Figures 1 and 2, which you mentioned, likely depict these solubility curves for different salts, showing how their solubility changes with temperature.

If you have specific questions or need more detailed explanations regarding the solubility curves or any other aspect of solutions, feel free to ask!