The solubility of metal halides depends on their nature, lattice enthalpy and hydration enthalpy of the individual ions. Amongst fluorides of alkali metals, the lowest solubility of LiF in water is due to -

1. Ionic nature of lithium fluoride

2. High lattice enthalpy

3. High hydration enthalpy for lithium ion

4. Low ionisation enthalpy of lithium ion

 
 



Hint: If lattice enthalpy is greater than hydration enthalpy then solubility increases.

Solubilities of alkali metal halides in water can be explained in terms of lattice enthalpy and hydration enthalpy. Lower lattice enthalpies and higher hydration enthalpies favor dissolution. The low solubility of LiF in water is due to its high lattice enthalpy.