Why do crystals form when a hot saturated solution is cooled slowly?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Solubility may decrease on cooling and extra solute separates
A hot saturated solution may contain a relatively large amount of dissolved solid. When it is cooled, the solubility of that solid may decrease. The solution then cannot retain all the dissolved material, so the excess leaves the solution and arranges into an ordered crystal lattice. Cooling does not make the solvent create a new substance or make the solute disappear.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Solubility may decrease on cooling and extra solute separates
Why is this the correct answer?
A hot saturated solution may contain a relatively large amount of dissolved solid. When it is cooled, the solubility of that solid may decrease. The solution then cannot retain all the dissolved material, so the excess leaves the solution and arranges into an ordered crystal lattice. Cooling does not make the solvent create a new substance or make the solute disappear.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 11 Chemistry question. Chapter: Chapter 01: Solutions.
