Multiple Choice
What happens to the ionic compound NaCl when it is placed in water?
6. Chemical Quantities & Aqueous Reactions
Solubility Rules
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Which of the following substances is insoluble in water?
A
Calcium sulfate (CaSO4)
B
Sodium chloride (NaCl)
C
Potassium nitrate (KNO3)
D
Ammonium acetate (CH3COONH4)
Verified step by step guidance1
Begin by understanding the concept of solubility. Solubility refers to the ability of a substance to dissolve in a solvent, such as water. Soluble substances dissolve well, while insoluble substances do not.
Review the solubility rules for ionic compounds in water. These rules help predict whether a compound will dissolve. For example, most sulfates are soluble, but there are exceptions like calcium sulfate (CaSO4).
Examine each compound in the list: Sodium chloride (NaCl), Potassium nitrate (KNO3), Ammonium acetate (CH3COONH4), and Calcium sulfate (CaSO4). Use the solubility rules to determine their solubility.
Apply the solubility rules: NaCl is generally soluble, KNO3 is soluble, CH3COONH4 is soluble, but CaSO4 is an exception to the sulfate solubility rule and is considered insoluble in water.
Conclude that Calcium sulfate (CaSO4) is the substance that is insoluble in water based on the solubility rules and exceptions.
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