Humber Admissions Practice Test

How does solubility for gases change when the temperature decreases?

1. Solubility of gases decreases

2. Solubility of gases increases

3. Solubility of gases remains constant

4. It varies unpredictably

The correct answer is: Solubility of gases increases

The solubility of gases in liquids is influenced by temperature, and when the temperature decreases, the solubility of gases actually increases. This is primarily due to the kinetic energy of gas molecules. At lower temperatures, gas molecules have less kinetic energy, allowing them to be more easily captured by the solvent molecules rather than escaping into the gas phase. The reduction in temperature encourages a greater amount of gas to dissolve in the liquid, leading to an increase in solubility. This principle can be observed in many practical situations, such as when cold water holds more dissolved oxygen compared to warmer water, which is crucial for aquatic life. In contrast, at higher temperatures, gas solubility typically decreases as the increased kinetic energy allows more gas molecules to escape from the liquid into the atmosphere. Therefore, it is clear that a decrease in temperature enhances the solubility of gases in liquids.