Question

Give the mathematical relationship for an unsaturated solution in comparing Q with K sp:__________.

Answer 1

Answer:

Q < Ksp

Explanation:

The general equilibrium of a constant product solubility, ksp, is:

AB ⇄ A⁺ + B⁻

Where Ksp is defined as:

Ksp = [A⁺] [B⁻]

When [A⁺] [B⁻] = Ksp, the solution is saturated or oversaturated because there are the maximum amount of ions that solution can dissolve.

When the solution is oversaturated, AB is produced.

Now, in a unsaturated solution, the [A⁺] [B⁻] is less than the maximum amount that can be dissolved. That means:

[A⁺] [B⁻] = Q < Ksp

Q is defined in the same way than Ksp, just in Q the system is not in equilibrium.

Right answer is:

Q < Ksp