Chemistry 11 · Chemistry · Lesson 8.1
Solutions and solubility
- Level
- Grade 11
- Reading time
- 12 min reading
- Review
- Last reviewed 2026-09-03
- Standard
- Accuracy standard
- Errata
Abstract
Solute, solvent, saturation and the meaning of solubility.
What is solubility?
Short answer
Solubility is the maximum amount of a solute that dissolves in a given amount of solvent at a specific temperature, forming a saturated solution. A solution below this limit is unsaturated; one held above it is supersaturated and unstable. Solubility depends on the nature of solute and solvent, temperature, and — for gases — pressure.
Concept preview
What you will be able to do
- 01Define solution, solute, solvent and solubility
- 02Distinguish unsaturated, saturated and supersaturated solutions
- 03Predict how temperature affects the solubility of solids and gases
A solution is a homogeneous mixture — one that is uniform throughout, with particles so small that the mixture is clear (though it may be coloured) and never settles out. Salt water, air and brass are all solutions. The word 'homogeneous' is the key test: pull a sample from anywhere in a true solution and it has the same composition. This is what separates a solution from a suspension like muddy water, whose particles settle and can be filtered out.
School Plan
Solutions and solubility
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Related topics
Frequently asked questions
- What is a saturated solution?
- One holding the maximum solute that can dissolve at that temperature; any extra solute stays undissolved.
- How does temperature affect solubility?
- For most solids, solubility rises with temperature; for gases, it falls as temperature increases.