To determine which options will increase the solubility of a solute, let's analyze each one:
a. Increasing the surface area of the solute - This increases the solubility because it allows more solute particles to come in contact with the solvent, facilitating dissolution. (Select)
b. Decreasing the surface area of the solute - This would decrease the solubility, as there would be less contact between the solute and solvent. (Do not select)
c. Cooling the solution - For most solutes, cooling decreases solubility. However, some solutes (like gases) increase solubility when cooled, but this is not generally the case for solids in liquids. (Do not select)
d. Stirring the solution - Stirring increases the rate of dissolution by distributing the solute particles throughout the solvent, promoting interaction. This can effectively increase the solubility of the solute in a practical sense. (Select)
e. Heating the solution - For many solutes, increasing the temperature increases solubility (especially solids in liquids), so heating the solution often increases solubility. (Select)
In summary, the options that will increase the solubility of a solute are:
- a. increasing the surface area of the solute
- d. stirring the solution
- e. heating the solution