Calculate the molar solubility of CaF2 in a 0.25 m solution of NaF(aq). (Ksp (CaF2) = 4.0 x 10-11)

6.4 × 10^-10 M

Explanation:

The molar solubility of the ions in a compound can be calculated from the Ksp (solubility constant).

CaF2 will dissociate as follows:

CaF2 ⇌Ca2+ + 2F-

1 mole of Calcium ion (x)

2 moles of fluorine ion (2x)

NaF will also dissociate as follows:

NaF ⇌ Na+ + F-

Where Na+ = 0.25M

F- = 0.25M

The total concentration of fluoride ion in the solution is (2x + 0.25M), however, due to common ion effect i.e. 2x<0.25, 2x can be neglected. This means that concentration of fluoride ion will be 0.25M

Ksp = {Ca2+}{F-}^2

Ksp = {x}{0.25}^2

4.0 × 10^-11 = 0.25^2 × x

4.0 × 10^-11 = 0.0625x

x = 4.0 × 10^-11 ÷ 6.25 × 10^-2

x = 4/6.25 × 10^ (-11+2)

x = 0.64 × 10^-9

x = 6.4 × 10^-10

Therefore, the molar solubility of CaF2 in NaF solution is 6.4 × 10^-10M