Using Solubility Rules

Solubility rules can be presented in several ways. A table of solubility rules is shown in your workbook as example 7-a. The more traditional version of the solubility rules is shown in example 7-b of your workbook.

In the table (Ex. 7-a), the first column lists the "type of compound" and the next two columns list which of those substances are soluble and which are insoluble or slightly soluble. Under "type of compound" the phrase "nitrates" refers collectively to all compounds which contain nitrate ions. Similarly, "chlorides" refers to all compounds that contain chloride ions. And so on.

Look over both the table and the rules to make sure they make sense to you. If you want additional clarification, click here.

Practice

Now use these solubility rules to decide whether or not the compounds listed here are soluble.  After you have done that, check your answers and then continue with the lesson.

As you have just seen, solubility rules can be used to figure out whether a certain combination of ions will come apart and dissolve in water. Some will and some won't.

Top of Page

E-mail instructor: Eden Francis

Clackamas Community College
©1998, 2003 Clackamas Community College, Hal Bender