Humber Admissions Practice Test

How does solubility change for liquids and solids when the temperature increases?

1. Solubility increases

2. Solubility decreases

3. Solubility stays the same

4. Solubility initially increases then decreases

The correct answer is: Solubility increases

When the temperature increases, the solubility of most solids in liquids typically increases. This phenomenon occurs because rising temperatures provide more kinetic energy to the particles involved in the dissolution process. As the temperature increases, the solvent molecules move more rapidly, which allows them to interact with the solid solute more effectively. This increased interaction often results in a greater number of solute particles dissolving, leading to an increase in solubility. However, it’s important to note that there are exceptions to this general trend, particularly when considering gases. For gases, heightened temperatures can lead to decreased solubility due to increased kinetic energy allowing gas molecules to escape from the liquid. In the context of the question, focusing specifically on solids and liquids confirms that for solids, solubility does indeed increase with temperature. This relationship is critical in various applications, such as cooking, chemical processes, and even understanding natural water systems.