Solubility Rules (Edexcel IGCSE Science (Double Award))
Revision Note
Written by: Stewart Hird
Reviewed by: Lucy Kirkham
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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 Tips and Tricks
Calcium hydroxide solution is more commonly know as limewater and is used to test for carbon dioxide.
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