Chapter 20, Problem 77AE

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Given the solubility product constant of $CaC{O}_3$, its molar solubility in water has to be calculated.

Concept Introduction:

Solubility product constant, K_sp correlates to the equilibrium constant for the phenomenon of solid substance dissolving in aqueous solution.

Consider a solid substance ‘X’ dissolves as follows –

$x{X}_{(s)}\stackrel{}{\rightleftarrows }y{Y}_{(aq)}+z{Z}_{(aq)}$

The expression for K_sp is given as,

$K_{sp}\text{ = }\frac{{\left[Y\right]}^y{\left[Z\right]}^z}{{\left[X\right]}^x}$

Since concentration of solid remains constant during solvation the above expression becomes,

$K_{sp}\text{ = }{\left[Y\right]}^y{\left[Z\right]}^z$

Greater the solubility of the substance greater is its K_sp value.