Multiple Choice
Which term refers to a substance that is capable of dissolving another substance?
6. Chemical Quantities & Aqueous Reactions
Solubility Rules
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Which of the following best describes what happens when salt dissolves in water?
A
Salt dissociates into sodium and chloride ions that are surrounded by water molecules.
B
Salt forms a precipitate at the bottom of the container.
C
Salt reacts with water to form a new compound.
D
Salt molecules remain intact and disperse evenly throughout the water.
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the chemical nature of salt: Salt, specifically sodium chloride (NaCl), is an ionic compound composed of sodium ions (Na+) and chloride ions (Cl-).
Understand the process of dissolution: When salt dissolves in water, the polar water molecules interact with the ions in the salt. The positive end of the water molecule (hydrogen) is attracted to the chloride ions, and the negative end (oxygen) is attracted to the sodium ions.
Describe the dissociation process: The water molecules surround the individual sodium and chloride ions, effectively pulling them apart from the solid structure of the salt. This process is known as dissociation.
Explain the role of water molecules: The water molecules form a hydration shell around each ion, stabilizing them in solution and preventing them from recombining into solid salt.
Conclude with the correct description: Therefore, when salt dissolves in water, it dissociates into sodium and chloride ions that are surrounded by water molecules, allowing them to disperse evenly throughout the solution.
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