The solubility of sodium sulfate in water is not a single fixed value, as it varies significantly with temperature. Based on the provided reference, we can state specific solubilities at certain temperatures for anhydrous sodium sulfate.
Solubility refers to the maximum amount of a substance (solute) that can dissolve in a given amount of solvent (water) at a specific temperature. For sodium sulfate, this property is particularly sensitive to temperature changes.
Solubility of Anhydrous Sodium Sulfate at Specific Temperatures
According to the information provided, the solubility of anhydrous sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄) in water at specific temperatures is as follows:
- At 0 degrees Celsius: The solubility is 47.6 grams per litre (g/L).
- At 20 degrees Celsius: The solubility is 139 grams per litre (g/L).
This shows a sharp increase in solubility as the temperature rises from 0°C to 20°C.
Temperature Dependence
The solubility of most solid substances in water increases with temperature, but sodium sulfate exhibits a notable change, especially in the lower temperature range. This characteristic behaviour is important in various chemical and industrial processes involving sodium sulfate.
To visualize the difference, consider the following table:
| Temperature (°C) | Solubility of Anhydrous Na₂SO₄ (g/L) |
|---|---|
| 0 | 47.6 |
| 20 | 139 |
As you can see, the amount of anhydrous sodium sulfate that can dissolve in one litre of water more than doubles when the temperature increases from freezing point to room temperature (20°C).
Understanding this temperature dependence is crucial when working with sodium sulfate solutions, whether in a laboratory setting or industrial application.
