What Happens When Water is Added to Solid KCl?

Introduction

When solid KCl is added to water, a solution is formed. However, not all of the solid KCl may dissolve in the water. The solubility of KCl in water plays a key role in whether or not it will completely dissolve.

Solubility of KCl in Water

KCl, also known as potassium chloride, is a soluble salt that can dissolve in water. The solubility of KCl in water increases with higher temperatures. At room temperature, approximately 34 grams of KCl can be dissolved in 100 mL of water.

Saturated Solution

When the solution reaches the point where no more solid KCl can dissolve in the water, it becomes a saturated solution. In a saturated solution, the amount of solute (solid KCl) that is dissolved in the solvent (water) is at its maximum level.

Unsaturated vs. Saturated Solutions

An unsaturated solution is one in which more solute can still be dissolved in the solvent. In contrast, a saturated solution is where no more solute can be dissolved, resulting in some solid KCl being visible in the flask.

Conclusion

In the scenario described, where some solid KCl is still visible in the flask after shaking, it indicates that the solution is saturated. This means that all the KCl that can dissolve in the water at that temperature has already done so, resulting in a saturated solution.