Dissolution

Dissolution is the process by which a solute becomes uniformly dispersed within a solvent to form a solution. The term is used in chemistry and related fields to describe how substances mix at the molecular level.

In solution chemistry, dissolution depends on the nature of the solute and solvent as well as conditions such as temperature, pressure (for gases), agitation, and particle size. Solubility is the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve at a given temperature, whereas the dissolution rate is how quickly that process occurs. For solids, solubility generally increases with temperature; for gases, it often decreases with increasing temperature. The polarity and ability to form intermolecular interactions influence whether dissolution is favorable. A saturated solution contains as much dissolved solute as possible under the given conditions.

In law and governance, dissolution refers to ending a formal arrangement or body. Corporate dissolution terminates a company’s legal existence, typically after winding up debts and distributing remaining assets, following filing and notification to authorities. Dissolution of partnerships similarly ends the partnership and may require settling liabilities. Dissolution of marriages or civil unions is a legal process that terminates the marital relationship. In political systems, dissolution of a legislature or government is the formal ending of the current body, usually triggering new elections; the procedure and consequences vary by jurisdiction.

Dissolution can also describe the broader transition from a dispersed state to a homogeneous phase in scientific contexts, or the dissolution of a geological mineral into water over time.