Solubility

Science

Definition

Solubility is the maximum amount of a solute that can dissolve in a given amount of solvent at a specific temperature and pressure. A solution is saturated when it contains the maximum dissolved solute, and any additional solute will remain undissolved.

Examples

  • Sugar dissolving easily in hot tea but less in iced tea
  • Carbon dioxide being more soluble in cold water, which is why warm soda goes flat faster
  • Salt (NaCl) having a solubility of about 36 g per 100 mL of water at 25°C
Key Fact

"Like dissolves like" — polar solutes dissolve in polar solvents; nonpolar in nonpolar

Related Terms

Concentration Colligative properties Ionic bonds Water properties

Study This Concept

Practice solubility with free review games in these units:

Chemistry Unit 7: Solutions and Mixtures