In a saturated solution of a salt in water, .
A) seed crystal addition may cause massive crystallization
B) the rate of crystallization the rate of dissolution
C) addition of more water causes massive crystallization
D) the rate of dissolution the rate of crystallization
E) the rate of crystallization = the rate of dissolution

Question

In a saturated solution of a salt in water, .
A) seed crystal addition may cause massive crystallization
B) the rate of crystallization > the rate of dissolution
C) addition of more water causes massive crystallization
D) the rate of dissolution > the rate of crystallization
E) the rate of crystallization = the rate of dissolution

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a saturated solution, the rate of dissolution (dissolving of solute) is equal to the rate of crystallization (formation of crystals). This means that the solution is in a state of dynamic equilibrium where the concentration of the solute remains constant as long as the temperature and pressure of the system remain constant. Adding a seed crystal may cause some of the solute to crystallize out of the solution, but it will not cause massive crystallization as the solution is already at its maximum solubility. Adding more water will not cause massive crystallization either as it will only dilute the solution and decrease the concentration of the solute.

In a Saturated Solution of a Salt in Water