Solubility Rules (Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry: Double Science)

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Solubility rules

  • Ionic compounds are generally soluble in water compared to covalent substances, but there are exceptions
  • A knowledge of the solubility of ionic compounds helps us to determine the most appropriate method for the preparation of salts
  • The solubility of common ionic compounds is shown below:

Solubility of the common salts

Salts Soluble Insoluble
Sodium, potassium and ammonium  All None
Nitrates All None
Chlorides Most are soluble Silver and lead(II)
Sulfates Most are soluble Barium, calcium and lead(II)
Carbonates Carbonates of sodium, potassium and ammonium Most are insoluble
Hydroxides

Hydroxides of sodium potassium and ammonium (calcium hydroxide is sparingly soluble)

Most are insoluble

  • Note that calcium hydroxide is slightly soluble in water

Examiner Tip

Calcium hydroxide solution is more commonly know as limewater and is used to test for carbon dioxide.

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Stewart

Author: Stewart

Expertise: Chemistry Lead

Stewart has been an enthusiastic GCSE, IGCSE, A Level and IB teacher for more than 30 years in the UK as well as overseas, and has also been an examiner for IB and A Level. As a long-standing Head of Science, Stewart brings a wealth of experience to creating Exam Questions and revision materials for Save My Exams. Stewart specialises in Chemistry, but has also taught Physics and Environmental Systems and Societies.