Physical Science / Unit 6: Solutions, Acids and Bases
6.1 Solutions
Notes
A solution is a homogeneous mixture in which one substance is evenly dissolved in another.
- The solute is the substance that is dissolved. The solvent is the substance that does the dissolving (usually the larger amount).
- Water is called the "universal solvent" because many substances dissolve in it. Like dissolves like: polar solvents dissolve polar and ionic solutes.
- Solutions do not settle and do not scatter a light beam as colloids do. Particles are too small to filter out.
- Example: In salt water, salt is the solute and water is the solvent.
Practice
In a solution of sugar in water, which is the solute?
The solute is the substance being dissolved.
Which is a solution?
A solution is uniform with particles too small to settle or filter.
Why does water dissolve many ionic compounds?
The slightly charged ends of water molecules pull ions apart.
Ready for more? Take the Unit 6 test.