You dissolved a solute in some water to make a solution. If you had needed to know how much solute dissolved, how could you have determined this?
I was just guessing of using a scale, but there must be some other way.
I suppose, with no more information given, that using a balance to determine the mass of the solute (before adding to the solvent) would be the way to go.
Thanks
To determine the amount of solute dissolved in a solution, you can use a method called gravimetric analysis. This method involves measuring the mass of the solute before and after it is dissolved.
Here's a step-by-step process of how you can determine the amount of solute dissolved:
1. Weigh an empty, dry container or beaker using a balance with high precision. Record the mass as "m1".
2. Carefully add a known mass of the solute, typically in solid form, to the container. Record the mass of the container and solute as "m2".
3. Add a measured volume of water into the container containing the solute. Stir or shake the mixture thoroughly to ensure complete dissolution of the solute.
4. If necessary, filter the solution to remove any undissolved particles. This step depends on the nature of the solute used.
5. Carefully heat the solution if the solute requires heat for complete dissolution. Be cautious and follow appropriate safety measures while applying heat.
6. Allow the solution to cool down to room temperature and then weigh the container with the dissolved solute (after filtration and heating, if applicable) using the same balance. Record the mass as "m3".
7. The amount of solute dissolved can be determined by subtracting the initial mass of the container from the final mass of the container with the dissolved solute.
Amount of solute dissolved = m3 - m1
By performing gravimetric analysis, you can accurately determine the amount of solute dissolved in a solution. It is important to handle all the materials and equipment carefully and accurately record the measurements to ensure reliable results.