Discuss the factors that influence the solubility of a gas in a liquid. Explain why the solubility of a gas in a liquid usually decreases with increasing temperature.

Short Answer

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Two factors affect the solubility of gases in liquids: temperature and external pressure. The solubility decreases with rising temperature because increased kinetic energy of the molecules amplifies their escape tendency from the liquid.

Step by step solution

01

Identifying factors affecting the solubility of gases in liquids

There are two main factors that affect the solubility of a gas in a liquid. Firstly, the temperature of the liquid: an increase in temperature decreases the solubility of a gas and vice versa. This is contrary to the effect of temperature on the solubility of solid substances. Secondly, the external pressure: applying pressure raises the solubility of a gas in a liquid. This is known as Henry's Law, which states that at a constant temperature, the amount of a given gas that dissolves in a given type and volume of liquid is directly proportional to the presssure of that gas in equilibrium with that liquid.
02

Why solubility of a gas in a liquid decreases with rising temperature

The solubility of gases in liquids diminishes as temperature increases because the kinetic energy of the molecules also increases. This amplifies the escape tendency of the gas particles from the liquid - the higher the temperature, the greater the kinetic energy. Therefore, more gas particles have enough energy to overcome the attractive forces holding them in the liquid, causing them to escape more easily. As a result, it becomes more difficult to dissolve additional gas in the liquid at higher temperatures.

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