Question

Consider the dissolution of an ionic salt in water. Which of the following statements best explains why this process is considered a physical change?

(A) The ionic salt can be recovered by evaporation of the water.
(B) The ionic salt can be recovered by solidification of the water.
(C) Dissolution of an ionic salt is mostly a physical change, and all physical changes are reversible.
(D) Dissolution of an ionic salt is mostly a chemical change, and all chemical changes are reversible

Answer 1

A

Step-by-step explanation:

A physical change is one that is reversible. No new substances are formed and the original substance can be gotten back. If we consider the dissolution of an ionic salt such as sodium chloride in water, we can see that it is a physical change.

The salt is expected to dissolve in water as it is ionic and water itself is polar. Hence, ionic salts are expected to dissolve in polar solvents.

Since it is a physical change, the salt and water can be recovered. The water can be separated from the salt by the process of evaporation