Salt is introduced to a water-filled flask. The flask is then sealed and vigorously shaken for several minutes. Despite shaking, NaCl particles remain suspended in the water. What steps can be taken to enhance the dissolution of NaCl in the water?

Question

A. Cool down the solution
B. Continue shaking the solution
C. Heat up the solution
D. Expose the solution to air

Answer 1

To enhance the dissolution of NaCl (table salt) in water, the following steps can be considered:

• C. Heat up the solution: Heating the water increases the kinetic energy of the water molecules, which helps to break apart the NaCl crystals more effectively and allows for greater interaction between the salt and the water, leading to improved dissolution.

Continuing to shake the solution (B) may help to some extent, but it is not as effective as increasing the temperature. Cooling down the solution (A) would actually hinder the dissolution process, and exposing the solution to air (D) would not significantly impact the dissolution of NaCl.

So, the best option to enhance the dissolution of NaCl in the water is C. Heat up the solution.