How to Make Gases More Soluble in Liquids
Many biological reactions depend on the presence of dissolved gases in bodily fluids such as blood and plasma. Other biological systems in nature require dissolved gases to maintain a healthy and living ecosystem. The solubility of gas into a liquid is dependent on both the temperature and the pressure. As temperature increases, the solubility decreases because each molecule possesses more energy and is able to exit the liquid phase and enter the gas phase. According to Henry's Law, as the pressure increases above a liquid the concentration of gases in the liquid also increase.
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Instructions
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Decrease the temperature of the surrounding liquid, thus lowering its temperature. As the temperature of the liquid drops, more gas will dissolve. A good example of this is in hot climates. Lakes and ponds frequently lose fish from drowning because the oxygen content in the water decreases due to the increased temperature of the water. As the temperature drops, more oxygen dissolves in the water and supports the fish.
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Increase the pressure of the surrounds of the liquid. As the pressure climbs, more gas passes into the liquid phase as described by Henry's Law. To view an example of this effect, think of a closed container filled with nitrogen gas. Place a glass of water in the container and close it again. Once the internal environment of the container reaches equilibrium, a finite amount of nitrogen will have dissolved in the water. Reduce the container volume by 50 percent. This doubles the pressure of nitrogen around the glass. According to LeChatelier's principle, more gas will enter the liquid phase to reduce the increase in pressure.
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Increase the pressure and decrease the temperature and you will dissolve the most gas in a liquid. A prime example of this practice is the soda industry. Carbonated drinks contain carbon dioxide dissolved in the water. Manufacturers package these products in a pressurized can or bottle. Packaging the product at reduced temperature and then keeping it cold for sale results in the product being highly carbonated when received by the consumer. Compare a hot soda and a cold soda. Which is more carbonated? You will find the cold one has more carbon dioxide dissolved in it.
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References
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