You make a solution of a nonvolatile solute with a liquid solvent. Indicate whether each of the following statements is true or false. (a) The freezing point of the solution is higher than that of the pure solvent. (b) The freezing point of the solution is lower than that of the pure solvent.

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the concept of freezing point depression, which states that the addition of a nonvolatile solute to a solvent decreases the freezing point of the solution compared to the pure solvent.

Step 2: Analyze statement (a): 'The freezing point of the solution is higher than that of the pure solvent.' Based on the concept of freezing point depression, determine if this statement is true or false.

Step 3: Analyze statement (b): 'The freezing point of the solution is lower than that of the pure solvent.' Use the concept of freezing point depression to evaluate the truth of this statement.

Step 4: Recall that the presence of a nonvolatile solute disrupts the formation of a solid structure in the solvent, thus requiring a lower temperature to freeze.

Step 5: Conclude the truth value of each statement based on the understanding of how nonvolatile solutes affect the freezing point of a solution.

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Colligative Properties

Colligative properties are properties of solutions that depend on the number of solute particles in a given amount of solvent, rather than the identity of the solute. These properties include boiling point elevation, freezing point depression, vapor pressure lowering, and osmotic pressure. Understanding colligative properties is essential for predicting how the addition of a solute affects the physical properties of a solvent.

Freezing Point Depression

Freezing point depression is a colligative property that describes the decrease in the freezing point of a solvent when a nonvolatile solute is added. This phenomenon occurs because the presence of solute particles disrupts the formation of the solid structure of the solvent, requiring a lower temperature to achieve freezing. This concept is crucial for understanding why the freezing point of a solution is lower than that of the pure solvent.

Nonvolatile Solute

A nonvolatile solute is a substance that does not readily evaporate and has a negligible vapor pressure compared to the solvent. When a nonvolatile solute is dissolved in a solvent, it affects the solvent's physical properties, such as lowering its freezing point and raising its boiling point. Recognizing the characteristics of nonvolatile solutes helps in predicting the behavior of solutions in various conditions.

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