A solute is a substance that dissolves in a solvent to form a solution.
In more detail:
- A solute can exist as a solid, liquid, or gas.
- The solvent is the component of the solution present in the greatest amount.
- When a solute dissolves, its particles become dispersed throughout the solvent.
Examples:
- Solid Solute: Sugar dissolving in water. Sugar is the solute, and water is the solvent.
- Liquid Solute: Ethanol dissolving in water to create vodka. Ethanol is the solute, and water is the solvent.
- Gas Solute: Carbon dioxide dissolving in water to create carbonated water. Carbon dioxide is the solute, and water is the solvent.
The ability of a solute to dissolve in a solvent depends on various factors, including:
- The nature of the solute and solvent: Polar solutes tend to dissolve in polar solvents, while nonpolar solutes tend to dissolve in nonpolar solvents ("like dissolves like").
- Temperature: The solubility of most solid solutes increases with temperature, while the solubility of gases typically decreases with temperature.
- Pressure: Pressure has a significant effect on the solubility of gases; increasing pressure generally increases solubility.
