How does temperature affect the solubility of gases in water?

The solubility of gases in water is significantly affected by temperature. As the temperature increases, the solubility of gases generally decreases. This phenomenon is due to the increased kinetic energy of the gas molecules at higher temperatures, which allows them to escape from the liquid phase into the gaseous phase more readily. Essentially, when water is warmer, gas molecules have a higher tendency to leave the solution and enter the atmosphere, leading to a reduction in the amount of gas that can be dissolved in the water.

Understanding this principle is particularly important in various applications, including aquatic ecosystems, where higher water temperatures can lead to lower dissolved oxygen levels, impacting fish and other aquatic life. It also plays a crucial role in industrial processes and water treatment practices, where control over gas solubility is necessary.