Solute Examples Explored: A Comprehensive Guide for Science Students

Summary

Solutes are substances that are dissolved in a solvent, forming a homogeneous solution. Understanding the solubility and behavior of various solutes is crucial in fields like chemistry, biology, and engineering. This comprehensive guide explores the measurable and quantifiable data associated with different solute examples, providing a valuable resource for science students.

Understanding Solute Solubility

solute examples explored

Solubility is a fundamental property that describes the maximum amount of a solute that can be dissolved in a given volume of solvent at a specific temperature and pressure. The solubility of a solute can be influenced by various factors, including temperature, pressure, and the nature of the solvent and solute.

CO2 Dissolved in Water

The solubility of carbon dioxide (CO2) in water is an important parameter in various applications, such as water treatment, carbonated beverages, and the study of ocean acidification. At 25°C and 1 atm pressure, the solubility of CO2 in water is approximately 1.47 g/L.

The solubility of CO2 in water can be described by Henry’s law, which states that the amount of gas dissolved in a liquid is proportional to the partial pressure of the gas above the liquid. The Henry’s law constant for CO2 in water at 25°C is approximately 0.034 mol/(L·atm).

Oxygen Gas Dissolved in Nitrogen Gas

The solubility of oxygen gas in nitrogen gas is an important consideration in various industrial and environmental applications, such as the design of gas separation systems and the study of atmospheric composition. At 1 atm and 25°C, the solubility of oxygen in nitrogen is approximately 4.8 cm3/L.

The solubility of a gas in another gas can be described by Raoult’s law, which states that the partial pressure of a component in a gas mixture is proportional to its mole fraction in the mixture. The Henry’s law constant for oxygen in nitrogen at 25°C is approximately 0.031 mol/(L·atm).

Sugar Dissolved in Water

The solubility of sucrose (table sugar) in water is a crucial parameter in the food and beverage industry, as well as in various chemical and biological processes. At 20°C, the solubility of sucrose in water is approximately 202 g/L.

The solubility of sucrose in water can be influenced by factors such as temperature, pH, and the presence of other solutes. The solubility of sucrose increases with increasing temperature, following an exponential relationship.

Alcohol Dissolved in Water

The solubility of ethanol (drinking alcohol) in water is an important consideration in various applications, including the production of alcoholic beverages, the development of fuel additives, and the study of biological processes. At 20°C, the solubility of ethanol in water is approximately 100 g/L.

The solubility of ethanol in water is influenced by factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of other solutes. Ethanol is miscible with water in all proportions, meaning that it can be dissolved in water without any limit.

Sodium Chloride (NaCl) in Water

Sodium chloride (NaCl), commonly known as table salt, is a widely used solute in various applications, including food processing, water treatment, and the study of biological systems. The solubility of NaCl in water is almost constant at different temperatures, with approximately 35.7 g/100 mL at 25°C.

The solubility of NaCl in water can be described by the solubility product constant (Ksp), which is a measure of the equilibrium between the dissolved ions and the solid salt. The Ksp for NaCl at 25°C is approximately 1.6 × 10^-14.

Ammonia (NH3) in Water

Ammonia (NH3) is a solute that is widely used in various industrial and agricultural applications, such as the production of fertilizers and the treatment of wastewater. The solubility of ammonia in water decreases as the temperature is increased, with approximately 1.01 g/100 mL at 0°C and 0.58 g/100 mL at 40°C.

The solubility of ammonia in water is influenced by factors such as pH, temperature, and the presence of other solutes. Ammonia can undergo protonation in water, forming the ammonium ion (NH4+), which affects its solubility and behavior in aqueous solutions.

Glucose in Water

Glucose, a monosaccharide, is a common solute in various biological and chemical processes, such as the study of carbohydrate metabolism and the production of biofuels. At 20°C, the solubility of glucose in water is approximately 500 g/L.

The solubility of glucose in water is influenced by factors such as temperature, pH, and the presence of other solutes. Glucose can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, which contributes to its high solubility in aqueous solutions.

Sucrose in Water

Sucrose, also known as table sugar, is a disaccharide that is widely used in the food and beverage industry, as well as in various chemical and biological processes. At 20°C, the solubility of sucrose in water is approximately 202 g/L.

The solubility of sucrose in water is influenced by factors such as temperature, pH, and the presence of other solutes. Sucrose can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, which contributes to its high solubility in aqueous solutions.

Iodine in Water

Iodine is a solute that is used in various applications, such as water purification, medical treatments, and the production of certain chemicals. At 20°C, the solubility of iodine in water is approximately 0.33 g/L.

The solubility of iodine in water is relatively low compared to other solutes, and it is influenced by factors such as temperature and the presence of other solutes. Iodine can also form complexes with other molecules, which can affect its solubility in aqueous solutions.

Naphthalene in Benzene

Naphthalene is a solute that is used in various applications, such as the production of dyes, insecticides, and certain types of plastics. At 20°C, the solubility of naphthalene in benzene is approximately 31.7 g/100 mL.

The solubility of naphthalene in benzene is influenced by factors such as temperature and the presence of other solutes. Naphthalene is a non-polar compound, and its solubility in polar solvents like water is relatively low compared to its solubility in non-polar solvents like benzene.

Conclusion

This comprehensive guide has explored the measurable and quantifiable data associated with various solute examples, providing valuable information for science students. Understanding the solubility and behavior of different solutes is crucial in a wide range of scientific and industrial applications. By familiarizing themselves with the specific details and data presented in this guide, students can deepen their understanding of solute properties and their practical applications.

Reference:

  1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/solute-molecule
  2. https://www.studysmarter.co.uk/explanations/chemistry/physical-chemistry/solutes-solvents-and-solutions/
  3. https://www.coursesidekick.com/chemistry/1228282