Which of the following statements is incorrect regarding true solutions?

• A. True solutions are homogeneous mixtures of solute and solvent.
• B. True solutions do not scatter light.
• C. The solute particles in a true solution are less than 1 nm in diameter.
• D. The particles in a true solution can be separated by filtration.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of a true solution. A true solution is a homogeneous mixture where the solute is completely dissolved in the solvent, forming a single phase.
2. Step 2: Recall the size of solute particles in a true solution. These particles are molecular or ionic in size, typically less than 1 nanometer (nm) in diameter, which is why they cannot be seen with the naked eye or a microscope.
3. Step 3: Consider the behavior of true solutions with respect to light. True solutions do not scatter light because the solute particles are too small to cause the Tyndall effect, which is the scattering of light by larger particles.
4. Step 4: Analyze the separation methods applicable to true solutions. Since the solute particles are at the molecular or ionic level, they cannot be separated by ordinary filtration, which only separates larger particles or undissolved solids.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the incorrect statement is the one claiming that particles in a true solution can be separated by filtration, as this contradicts the fundamental properties of true solutions.