Solubility is the ability of a substance (solute) to dissolve in a solvent at a given temperature and pressure. It is the maximum amount of solute that can be dissolved in a specific amount of solvent, forming a solution. Solubility can be affected by:
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Temperature: For most solid solutes, solubility increases with temperature, while for gases, it decreases.
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Pressure: The solubility of gases increases with increasing pressure (Henry’s Law).
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Nature of Solute and Solvent: Like dissolves like; polar solutes tend to dissolve in polar solvents, and non-polar solutes dissolve in non-polar solvents.
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Example: The solubility of salt in water increases as the temperature rises.