Stirring a solution increases the rate at which a solute dissolves due to several reasons:
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Increased Contact: Stirring brings fresh solvent into contact with the solute particles more frequently. This enhances the interaction between solvent molecules and solute particles, facilitating the breaking of intermolecular bonds in the solute.
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Dispersal of Solute: As the solution is stirred, the solute particles are dispersed throughout the solvent. This reduces the concentration of solute molecules near the solid, allowing more solute to dissolve as there are fewer solute molecules inhibiting further dissolution.
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Enhanced Diffusion: Stirring promotes the mixing of the solution, which helps to distribute heat and concentration evenly. It aids the diffusion process, where solute molecules move from areas of high concentration to low concentration. This means that solute molecules can enter the solution more consistently and rapidly.
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Heat Generation: In some cases, stirring can generate a slight increase in temperature, especially if done energetically. Since the solubility of many solutes increases with temperature, this can further enhance the rate of dissolution.
Overall, stirring helps to overcome static layers of solvent that may form around solute particles, allowing for faster and more efficient dissolution of the solute.
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