The correct option is (a).
Explanation
Solubility is a fundamental property of matter that describes the maximum amount of a substance (solute) that can dissolve in a specific amount of solvent at a specified temperature to form a saturated solution.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Solubility is quantitatively defined as the amount of solute required to form a saturated solution in a given quantity of solvent at a particular temperature. In a saturated solution, the solution is in equilibrium with the undissolved solute.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Solubility depends on the nature of both the solute and the solvent. Different substances exhibit different solubilities in the same solvent at the same temperature due to variations in intermolecular interactions (e.g., polarity).
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: Solubility is temperature-dependent. For most solids dissolved in liquids, solubility increases with a rise in temperature. However, for gases dissolved in liquids, solubility typically decreases as temperature increases.
Key Takeaway:
Solubility is specific to the solute-solvent pair and varies significantly with changes in temperature and pressure (for gases).