Q. When a non-volatile solute is added to the solvent, the vapour pressure of the solvent decreases by 10 mm of Hg. The mole fraction of the solute in the solution is 0.2. What would be the mole fraction of the solvent if decrease in vapour pressure is 20 mm of Hg ?
A) 0.8
B) 0.4
C) 0.2
D) 0.6
Explanation
[Solution by Dr. Abubacker] $\Delta P=x_{solute}P^0$: $10=0.2P^0\Rightarrow P^0=50$ mm Hg. For $\Delta P=20$: $x_{solute}=\frac{20}{50}=0.4$, so the mole fraction of the solvent is $1-0.4=0.6$. Answer (4).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.