Chapter 13 Solutions - Key Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from Chapter 13 sections on the solution process, solution types, and gas solubility (Henry's Law).

solute

The substance dissolved in a solution.

solvent

The substance in which the solute dissolves; the dissolving medium.

solution

A homogeneous mixture of solute and solvent.

like dissolves like

Substances dissolve in one another if the solute and solvent are able to form intermolecular attractions.

intermolecular attractions

Forces between molecules that drive dissolution, such as attractive forces between solute and solvent molecules.

enthalpy of solution (ΔHsol)

The overall energy change of the solution process; the sum of the enthalpies of separation of solute, separation of solvent, and formation of solute–solvent interactions.

three-step model of solution formation

A model where ΔHsol equals the sum of (1) separating solute particles, (2) separating solvent particles, and (3) forming solute–solvent interactions.

saturated solution

A solution that contains the maximum amount of dissolved solute at a given temperature.

unsaturated solution

A solution containing less than the maximum amount of dissolved solute.

supersaturated solution

A solution that holds more solute than is stable.

solubility

The maximum amount of solute that can dissolve in a given solvent at a specified temperature.

solubility of gases

For gases, solubility decreases as temperature increases because gas molecules escape more readily at higher temperatures.

Henry’s Law

At a given temperature, the solubility of a gas in a liquid is directly proportional to the partial pressure of the gas above the liquid.

Henry’s law constant (k)

The proportionality constant in Henry's law relating gas solubility to its partial pressure.

P (partial pressure)

The partial pressure of the gas above the liquid in Henry’s law.