Why are there crystals formed when a hot saturated solution is allowed

In summary, crystals form when a hot saturated solution is allowed to cool because the solubility of the solute decreases, leading to the formation of a solid crystal lattice. Temperature affects the formation of crystals by influencing the solubility of the solute, with higher temperatures allowing for more solute to be dissolved. A saturated solution is one in which the maximum amount of solute has been dissolved at a given temperature and pressure. To determine if a solution is saturated, one can add more solute and observe if it dissolves or forms a separate solid phase. Crystals can form in a room temperature saturated solution, but at a slower rate due to the decrease in solubility as the solution cools.
  • #1
Celluhh
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Homework Statement




why are there crystals formed when a hot saturated solution is allowed to cool? the solid has already dissolved into the solution, forming the solute, so when the solution is cooled, and the temp decreases. does this mean they dissolve out of the solution?



(i know this hypothesis may sound ridiculous but yeah)
 
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  • #2


Solubility is often temperature dependent, and in most cases (but not all) goes up with temperature. When temperature changes and solution becomes supersaturated, solute "leaves" the solution.
 

1. Why do crystals form when a hot saturated solution is allowed?

Crystals form when a hot saturated solution is allowed because as the solution cools, the solubility of the solute decreases. This means that the solution becomes supersaturated, and the solute molecules start to come together and form a solid crystal lattice.

2. How does temperature affect the formation of crystals in a saturated solution?

The higher the temperature of the solution, the more solute can be dissolved in it. As the temperature decreases, the solubility of the solute decreases as well. This leads to the formation of crystals as the solution becomes supersaturated.

3. What is a saturated solution?

A saturated solution is a solution in which the maximum amount of solute has been dissolved at a given temperature and pressure. Any additional solute added to the solution will not dissolve and will instead form a separate solid phase.

4. How can you tell if a solution is saturated?

A solution is considered saturated when no more solute can be dissolved in it at a given temperature and pressure. This can be determined by adding more solute to the solution and observing if it dissolves or forms a separate solid phase.

5. Can crystals form in a room temperature saturated solution?

Yes, crystals can form in a room temperature saturated solution. However, the rate of crystal formation may be slower compared to a hot saturated solution. The cooling of the solution will still lead to a decrease in solubility and the formation of crystals over time.

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