If Q < Ksp, what happens to the solution?

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Study for the IMAT Chemistry Exam. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions; hints and explanations included for each question. Prepare effectively for your exam.

Multiple Choice

If Q < Ksp, what happens to the solution?

Explanation:
When Q is less than Ksp, the solution is undersaturated with respect to the dissolved ions. The solid can keep dissolving to raise the ion concentrations until the ion product reaches Ksp, so more solid can dissolve. A precipitate would form only if Q were greater than Ksp, and equilibrium occurs when Q equals Ksp. Supersaturation implies Q exceeds Ksp, which isn’t the case here.

When Q is less than Ksp, the solution is undersaturated with respect to the dissolved ions. The solid can keep dissolving to raise the ion concentrations until the ion product reaches Ksp, so more solid can dissolve. A precipitate would form only if Q were greater than Ksp, and equilibrium occurs when Q equals Ksp. Supersaturation implies Q exceeds Ksp, which isn’t the case here.

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