What is typically true about the solubility of ionic compounds as the temperature increases?

Prepare for the NCEA Level 3 Chemistry – Aqueous Chemistry (AS91393) Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Excel on your exam!

The solubility of ionic compounds generally tends to increase with an increase in temperature because most ionic compounds are endothermic in nature when it comes to their dissolution process. When dissolved in water, these compounds require energy to break the ionic bonds holding the lattice structure together. As temperature rises, the increased kinetic energy of the molecules provides the necessary energy to overcome these interionic attractions, allowing more ions to disperse in the solution.

This principle aligns with Le Chatelier's principle, which states that if a system at equilibrium is disturbed, it will shift in a direction that counteracts the disturbance. In the case of ionic compounds dissolving in water, the addition of heat can be seen as a disturbance that encourages the absorption of this energy, promoting dissolution.

It's important to note that while many ionic compounds follow this trend, there are exceptions. For instance, some salts may show decreased solubility at higher temperatures. However, the general rule across most ionic compounds is that solubility increases with temperature.

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