Question

Calculate the number of phases in a saturated solution of NaCl and water.

(a) 2

(b) 1

(c) 3

(d) 4

I had been asked this question in final exam.

Question is from Phases and Components in chapter Phase Rule of Engineering Chemistry I

Answer 1

Correct choice is (a) 2

The best I can explain: We know that salt is soluble in water. So normally the number of phases is one. But under saturated condition, salt becomes insoluble in water and so the number of phases is 2 (as they form heterogeneous mixture).