Question

Which is more soluble in water $NaCl$ or $KCl$?

Answer 1

Hint: We must have to know that the solubility is the ability of a compound, it may be a liquid, solid or gaseous substance to dissolve in solvent and there is a formation of a solution. The solubility is mainly dependent upon the solvent, hydration energy, lattice energy, temperature, and pressure. The solute is mainly divided into three types according to their concentrations and that is insoluble, sparingly, and highly soluble.

Complete answer:
Among these given compounds, sodium chloride is more soluble in water than potassium chloride. Because the solubility of a compound mainly depends upon the hydration energy and lattice energy. If the hydration energy of the compound is greater than lattice energy, the solubility is more. Here, the lattice energy of potassium chloride is greater than its hydration energy. Therefore, potassium chloride is insoluble in water.
But for sodium chloride, the hydration energy of sodium chloride is greater than its lattice energy. Hence, it is highly soluble in water. And the size of sodium ions is smaller than potassium ions. Therefore, the sodium ion can easily create a hydration sphere around the ion than potassium ions. If the potassium chloride is dissolved in water, there is a formation of potassium and chloride ions. And when the sodium chloride is mixed with water, due to the covalent bonds, the salts will dissolve in water.

Note:
We must know that the sodium chloride is more soluble than potassium chloride due to its small size and high hydration energy. The sodium atom readily reacts with water and it dissolves in it. Because the covalent bonds present in the water are stronger than the ionic bonds which are present in the salt molecules. Hence, the water will attract\[N{a^ + }\] and \[C{l^ - }\] ions aside.