Chemistry 2009 JAMB Past Questions - Question 16: for a given solute, the concentration of its saturated solution in different solvents are

Correct Answer

B

Explanation

You are correct: **the concentration of a saturated solution for a given solute is different in different solvents at the same temperature.** It is not the same across different solvents, nor is it constant at different temperatures.

Here's why:

- **Solubility depends on interactions:** The key factor influencing solubility is the interaction between the solute molecules and the solvent molecules. Different solvents have different chemical properties, so their interactions with the solute will vary. For example, a polar solute like NaCl will be more soluble in a polar solvent like water than in a nonpolar solvent like benzene.
- **Dynamic equilibrium:** In a saturated solution, the solute is dissolving and coming out of solution at the same rate, resulting in a dynamic equilibrium. The amount of solute that can dissolve to reach this equilibrium depends on the specific interactions between the solute and solvent, which differ across solvents.
- **Temperature impact:** Furthermore, solubility typically increases with temperature for most solutes. This means that even in the same solvent, the concentration of a saturated solution will change depending on the temperature.

Therefore, the statement that the concentration of a saturated solution for a given solute is the same in different solvents at the same temperature is **incorrect**.