Dissolved

Definition

Dissolved describes a state in which a solute is uniformly dispersed within a solvent, forming a solution. The solute particles are at the molecular or ionic level.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. When a substance dissolves, it breaks down into smaller particles that interact with the solvent molecules.
2. The solubility of a substance depends on temperature, pressure, and the nature of the solute and solvent.
3. In aqueous solutions, water acts as the solvent and dissolves many ionic compounds due to its polar nature.
4. The concentration of dissolved substances in a solution is often measured in molarity (M), defined as moles of solute per liter of solution.
5. Dynamic equilibrium can occur in saturated solutions where the rate of dissolution equals the rate of precipitation.

Review Questions

• What factors affect the solubility of a substance?
• How do you calculate molarity for a dissolved substance?
• What is dynamic equilibrium in the context of dissolved substances?

Related terms

Solvent:

A substance that dissolves a solute to form a solution.

Solute:

The substance that is dissolved in a solvent to form a solution.

Molarity:

$M$ represents moles of solute per liter of solution and is used to express concentration.