Solution Chemistry Notes 

Importance of Solutions In nature, it is rare to find pure solids, liquids or gases; most substances are mixtures Most elements and most compounds of interest are solids at RT; however the rxn rate between solids is very slow In the lab, most chemical reactions are carried out by dissolving solids in liquid solvents to increase the # of collisions and hence the rxn rates

Review of Terms A mixture is composed of two or more substances physically combined. Mixtures can either be homogeneous (uniform throughout) heterogeneous (non uniform)

Definition of a “Solution” A solution is a homogeneous (uniform) mixture of a solute and a solvent. Everyday solutions: Let’s examine 4 different solutions, with their solutes and solvents.

Solution = Solute + Solvent

Relationships Solute: present in ___________ amount Solvent: present in __________ amount

Solution Solute Solvent Salt Water NaCl H2O Which is present in the smaller amount? Which is present in the larger amount?

Solution Solute Solvent Carbonated Water CO2 H2O Which is present in the smaller amount? Which is present in the larger amount?

Solution Solute Solvent Air O2 (+ others) N2 Which is present in the smaller amount? Which is present in the larger amount?

Solution Solute Solvent Gold Jewelry Ag, Cu Au Which is present in the smaller amount? Which is present in the larger amount?

So, next time you go swimming, it’s really just chemistry. 