Chapter 25: Problem 6

In Chapter 12 you learned about the colligative properties of solutions. Which of the colligative properties is suitable for determining the molar mass of a polymer? Why?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The colligative properties most suitable for determining the molar mass of a polymer are the freezing-point depression and boiling-point elevation because the change in these temperatures is directly proportional to the molar mass of the solute.

Step by step solution

Identifying Colligative Property

Out of the four colligative properties mentioned, freezing-point depression and boiling-point elevation are the most commonly used to determine the molar mass of a polymer.

Explanation

Freezing-point depression and boiling-point elevation are preferred because the change in temperature is directly proportional to the molar mass of the solute. In other words, the higher the molar mass, the greater the change in temperature. This unique relationship makes these properties well-suited for this purpose.

Further Explanation

Specifically, for polymers, which can have high molar masses, these methods are particularly effective. Other methods such as osmotic pressure and vapor pressure lowering can also be used but they require more sophisticated apparatus and careful interpretation of the data. However, the freezing-point depression and boiling-point elevation are straightforward and easier to measure, even for large molecules like polymers.

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In Chapter 12 you learned about the colligative properties of solutions. Which of the colligative properties is suitable for determining the molar mass of a polymer? Why?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Identifying Colligative Property

Explanation

Further Explanation

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