At what factors does saturation depend for a given solute?

Saturation for a given solute in a solvent primarily depends on temperature and pressure. The temperature of the solvent affects the kinetic energy of the molecules, which influences how much solute can dissolve. Generally, for most solids, an increase in temperature allows more solute to dissolve in the solvent, leading to a higher saturation point. Conversely, for gases, higher temperatures typically lead to lower solubility due to increased molecular motion and decreased interaction with the solvent.

Pressure plays a significant role in the saturation of gases dissolved in liquids. According to Henry's Law, the solubility of a gas in a liquid is directly proportional to the partial pressure of that gas above the liquid. Therefore, increasing the pressure increases the amount of gas that can be dissolved, enhancing the saturation point.

The other factors listed—concentration and volume, the solute's molecular weight and polarity, and the rate of mixing and container shape—do not fundamentally determine the saturation limit of solute in a solvent. While molecular weight and polarity can affect solubility, they do not dictate saturation directly. Similarly, concentration and volume relate to how much solute is initially in a solution but do not define the maximum capacity for saturation under given conditions. The rate of mixing and