Question

why does 1 g of finely ground salt dissolve in water faster than an equal mass of coarsely ground salt?
a. the finely ground salt is less dense than the coarsely ground salt.
b. the finely ground salt contains fewer particles than the coarsely ground salt.
c. the finely ground salt has a larger surface area than the coarsely ground salt.
d. the finely ground salt has a different chemical nature than the coarsely ground salt.

Explanation:

The rate of dissolution depends on the surface - area to volume ratio. Finely ground salt has smaller particles, resulting in a larger surface area exposed to water. This allows for more contact between salt and water molecules, speeding up the dissolution process.

Answer:

C. The finely ground salt has a larger surface area than the coarsely ground salt.