Solvatisation

Solvatisation is a process that occurs when a solute dissolves in a solvent. It involves the interaction between solute particles and solvent molecules. When a solute is introduced into a solvent, the solvent molecules surround the solute particles, forming a solvation shell. This shell is a layer of solvent molecules that are oriented around the solute particles. The nature of the interaction between the solute and solvent molecules determines the extent of solvation.

The driving force for solvation is the formation of new attractive interactions between the solute and solvent molecules, which can compensate for the energy required to break the existing solute-solute and solvent-solvent interactions. If the new solute-solvent interactions are strong enough, the solute will dissolve. The polarity of the solute and solvent plays a crucial role in this process. Polar solutes tend to dissolve in polar solvents ("like dissolves like"), and nonpolar solutes dissolve in nonpolar solvents.

The term solvation is general and applies to any solvent. When the solvent is water, the process is specifically called hydration. Solvatisation is a fundamental concept in chemistry, particularly in the study of solutions, chemical reactions, and separation processes. It influences properties such as solubility, reaction rates, and the stability of chemical species in solution. The strength of the solvation can vary significantly, affecting the behavior of the dissolved solute.