Variation of crystal dissolution rate based on a dissolution stepwave model

A formulation based on defect-generated dissolution stepwaves of the variat ion of dissolution rate with the degree of undersaturation is validated by nearatomic-scale observations of surfaces, Monte Carte simulations, and exp erimental bulk dissolution rates. The dissolution stepwaves emanating from etch pits provide a train of steps similar to those of a spiral but with di fferent behavior. Their role in accounting for the bulk dissolution rate of crystals provides a conceptual framework for mineral dissolution far from equilibrium. Furthermore, the Law extends research to conditions closer to equilibrium and predicts a nonlinear decrease in the rate of dissolution as equilibrium is approached, which has implications for understanding artifi cial and natural processes involving solid-fluid reactions.