Soluble
Definition and meaning of Soluble in chemistry.
Soluble describes a substance that is capable of dissolving in a solvent, typically water, to form a homogeneous solution. The degree to which a substance can dissolve is measured by its solubility, usually expressed in grams of solute per 100 milliliters of solvent.
In more detail
When a solute dissolves in a solvent, its particles disperse at the molecular or ionic level throughout the solvent, creating a uniform solution. Solubility depends on several factors, particularly temperature, pressure, and the chemical nature of both solute and solvent; the rule "like dissolves like" explains why polar solutes dissolve well in polar solvents while nonpolar solutes prefer nonpolar solvents. Most solid solutes become more soluble at higher temperatures, which is why sugar dissolves more readily in hot water than in cold water. Ionic compounds like sodium chloride (NaCl) are generally soluble in polar solvents like water, while nonpolar substances dissolve better in nonpolar solvents.
Key facts
| Field | General Chemistry |
|---|---|
| Opposite | Insoluble |
| Common solvent | Water (H2O) |
| Key factor | Temperature |
Sodium chloride (NaCl), common table salt, is highly soluble in water at 25 degrees Celsius, with a solubility of approximately 36 grams per 100 milliliters of water.
Frequently asked questions
Does soluble mean it will dissolve completely?
Soluble means a substance can dissolve, but not necessarily completely. Most substances reach a saturation point where no more can dissolve at that temperature.
Why does solubility vary with temperature?
Temperature increases the kinetic energy of molecules, generally allowing solutes to disperse more readily in solvents. Most solid solutes become more soluble at higher temperatures.