Answer true or false. (a) A solute is the substance dissolved in a solvent to form a solution. (b) A solvent is the medium in which a solute is dissolved to form a solution. (c) Some solutions can be separated into their components by filtration. (d) Acid rain is a solution.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Answers:
(a) True
(b) True
(c) False
(d) True
Explanation (300 words):
A solution is a homogeneous mixture composed of two or more substances. In a solution, the solute is the substance that is dissolved, and the solvent is the substance that does the dissolving. For example, in a saltwater solution, salt acts as the solute, and water is the solvent. Therefore, both statements (a) and (b) are accurate in describing the components of a solution.
Statement (c), however, is false. Filtration is a method used to separate components in heterogeneous mixtures, not homogeneous solutions. In a true solution, the solute particles are at the molecular or ionic level and are evenly distributed throughout the solvent. These particles are too small to be caught by a filter, making filtration an ineffective method for separating solutions. For example, sugar dissolved in water forms a solution that cannot be separated through filtration.
Statement (d) is true. Acid rain is a solution formed when atmospheric water reacts with pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ). These gases dissolve in water droplets in the atmosphere to form acids like sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) and nitric acid (HNO₃), resulting in rainwater with a lower pH than normal. This mixture is a true solution, as the acidic components are fully dissolved in the water and cannot be separated by simple physical means.
Understanding the nature of solutions, solutes, and solvents is crucial in chemistry. It helps in analyzing environmental issues like acid rain and industrial processes involving chemical mixing. Moreover, distinguishing between homogeneous and heterogeneous mixtures aids in selecting appropriate methods for separation and purification in scientific and industrial applications.
