When using a liquid as a solvent, what could be the state(s) of matter of the solute?

Question

When trying to dissolve a liquid, what could be the state(s) of matter of the solvent?

When using a gas as a solvent, what could be the state(s) of matter of the solute?

When trying to dissolve a solid, what could be the state(s) of matter of the solvent?

Answer 1

The solute and solvent can exist in various states of matter (solid, liquid, or gas) depending on the specific solution being considered. Here's a breakdown for each scenario you mentioned:

1. When using a liquid as a solvent:

   • The solute can be in any of the three states of matter: solid, liquid, or gas.
     • Solid Examples: Salt or sugar dissolved in water.
     • Liquid Examples: Alcohol dissolved in water or two miscible liquids (like oil and vinegar).
     • Gas Examples: Carbon dioxide gas dissolved in water (carbonated beverages).

2. When trying to dissolve a liquid:

   • The state of the solvent is typically a liquid (since you're dissolving another liquid), but it can also involve gases or solids in the form of mixtures, though these are less common.
     • Liquid Examples: Water and ethanol mixing.
     • Solid Examples: Solid emulsifiers may be used to stabilize liquid mixtures.
     • Gas Examples: Vaporized liquids may condense but are less common as solvents.

3. When using a gas as a solvent:

   • The solute can also be in various states of matter: solid, liquid, or gas.
     • Solid Examples: Gases like air can carry aerosolized solid particles.
     • Liquid Examples: Water vapor can dissolve small amounts of liquid chemicals.
     • Gas Examples: Oxygen dissolving in nitrogen (air) at various altitudes.

4. When trying to dissolve a solid:

   • The solvent can be in various states of matter, though most commonly it is a liquid. However, solids and gases can also be involved.
     • Liquid Examples: Water dissolving table salt or sugar.
     • Solid Examples: Solid acids can sometimes react with solid bases, leading to dissolving through chemical reactions.
     • Gas Examples: Gaseous solvents generally lead to different reactions, but certain solid gases (like dry ice sublimating) can affect solids in a way similar to dissolving.

In summary, the interactions and states of matter in solutions are versatile, and their applicability depends on the types of substances involved.