When a solid is dissolved into a liquid, the solid particles break down into smaller particles, such as molecules or ions, and disperse evenly throughout the liquid. This process is known as dissolution. The result is a homogeneous mixture called a solution.
Here’s a step-by-step explanation of what happens:
- Breaking Down: The solid particles are surrounded by the liquid molecules. The liquid molecules interact with the solid particles, breaking the bonds that hold the solid together.
- Dispersion: Once the bonds are broken, the solid particles disperse evenly throughout the liquid. This dispersion happens because the particles are constantly moving and colliding with each other.
- Formation of Solution: The final result is a solution where the solid particles are uniformly distributed in the liquid. The solution appears clear and does not separate over time.
For example, when table salt (a solid) is dissolved in water (a liquid), the salt breaks down into sodium and chloride ions, which disperse evenly throughout the water, forming a saline solution.
This process is influenced by factors such as temperature, the nature of the solid and liquid, and the amount of solid being dissolved. Higher temperatures generally increase the rate of dissolution, and some solids dissolve more easily in certain liquids than others.