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

Question

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

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a saturated solution, the rate of dissolution and the rate of crystallization are equal, so the solution remains at equilibrium with an undissolved solute present. If the rate of crystallization was greater than the rate of dissolution, then the solution would become supersaturated and additional solute would precipitate out of the solution.

In a Saturated Solution of a Salt in Water,________