Problem 14 - Biology: The Unity and Diversity of Life

Question

A _______ is dissolved in a solvent. a. molecule b. solute c. salt

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct answer is b. solute.

Step 1: Understanding the Components

In a solution, there are two main components: the solute and the solvent. The solute is the substance that is being dissolved, while the solvent is the substance that does the dissolving.

Step 2: Identifying the Terms

Review the options provided in the question: a. Molecule - This is a general term for a group of atoms bonded together, and it does not specifically refer to a component of a solution. b. Solute - This term specifically refers to the substance that is dissolved in the solvent. c. Salt - While a salt can be a type of solute, the term 'solute' encompasses all substances that can be dissolved.

Step 3: Selecting the Correct Answer

Based on the definitions and the question, the term that best completes the sentence is 'solute', as it is the general term for the substance that is dissolved in a solvent in a solution.

Key Concepts

Understanding the Solute

In the world of solution chemistry, the solute plays a crucial role. When we talk about a solute, we’re referring to the substance that is dissolved in a solvent to create a solution. Think of it like sugar in your tea. The sugar is the solute.

• The solute can be in different forms, such as a solid, liquid, or gas.
• It is typically present in a smaller amount compared to the solvent.
• Examples include sugar in water, oxygen in air, and carbon dioxide in soda.

By understanding the role of the solute, we can start to see how solutions are formed and what makes them different from mixtures.

The Solvent's Role

Now, let’s shift our focus to the solvent. The solvent is the substance that dissolves the solute, allowing it to spread out and interact within the solution. Water is one of the most common solvents and is often referred to as a "universal solvent" due to its ability to dissolve so many substances.

• Solvents are usually present in greater amounts than solutes.
• They can be liquids, such as water or oil, but can also be gases or even solids.
• Different solvents dissolve different solutes based on chemical properties, such as polarity.

Understanding solvents is essential because they dictate how, and to what extent, a solute will dissolve into a solution.

The Dissolution Process

The dissolution process is where the magic happens. It is the process by which a solute dissolves in a solvent to form a solution. This process is influenced by factors such as temperature, pressure, and the nature of the solute and solvent.

• The dissolution can be endothermic (absorbing heat) or exothermic (releasing heat).
• Agitation or stirring can speed up this process by allowing more solute particles to come in contact with the solvent.
• Factors like temperature increase can enhance solubility because it provides more energy for interaction.

By studying the dissolution process, we can manipulate conditions to optimize how substances combine, creating solutions that are effective for various purposes.