Solutions, Solutes, and Solubility Study Guide

Pure Substances: Contains only one kind of matter; includes elements and compounds.

Mixtures: Composed of two or more pure substances; can be homogeneous (uniform composition) or heterogeneous (non-uniform composition).

Solutions: A type of homogeneous mixture; includes solute (dissolved substance) and solvent (substance in which solute is dissolved).

Colloids and Suspensions: Colloids have dispersed particles that do not settle; suspensions have larger particles that can settle out.

The Tyndall Effect: Light scatter varies with particle size; visible in colloids/suspensions but not in solutions.

Solubility: Refers to the ability of a substance to dissolve; conditions affecting solubility include temperature and nature of solute/solvent.

Dissolution Process: Involves dissolving solids and can be affected by heating, surface area, and stirring.

Saturation: A saturated solution can hold no more solute at a specific temperature; solubility varies by substance and temperature.