What does it mean for a substance to be soluble?

A substance being soluble means that it has the ability to dissolve in a solvent, which is most commonly water. When a soluble substance is mixed with a solvent, it interacts at the molecular level, resulting in a homogeneous solution. This process occurs as solute particles become surrounded by solvent molecules and disperse throughout the solvent, leading to a uniform mixture.

For example, when table salt (sodium chloride) is added to water, the ionic bonds between the sodium and chloride ions break, and these ions become surrounded by water molecules, effectively dissolving the salt. The concept of solubility is crucial in various fields, as it influences chemical reactions, biological processes, and the formulation of products.

Other options describe conditions that do not appropriately define solubility. A substance that cannot be mixed with any liquid does not reflect the nature of solubility, as it implies immiscibility rather than a collaborative interaction. Similarly, a substance that reacts explosively with water or forms gas upon dissolving relates to specific chemical reactions and properties rather than the general capacity of a substance to dissolve. Therefore, the most accurate definition of solubility emphasizes the ability to dissolve in a solvent.