Which of the following is the second step in the dissolving process of a solid solute in a liquid solvent?

• A. The separation of solute particles from each other
• B. The formation of solute-solvent interactions
• C. The separation of solvent particles to make room for solute particles
• D. The precipitation of the solute from the solution

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the dissolving process involves multiple steps: first, the solute particles must separate from each other; second, the solvent particles must separate to make space; and third, solute and solvent particles interact.
2. Identify the first step as the separation of solute particles from each other, which requires energy to overcome the forces holding the solute together.
3. Recognize that the second step is the separation of solvent particles to create space for the solute particles; this also requires energy to overcome intermolecular forces between solvent molecules.
4. Note that the third step is the formation of solute-solvent interactions, where new attractions form between solute and solvent particles, releasing energy.
5. Confirm that precipitation of the solute is not part of the dissolving process but rather the reverse, where solute particles come out of solution.