Question

An azeotropic mixture of HCl and \( \text{H}_2\text{O} \) boils at

• A. 48% HCl
• B. 36% HCl
• C. 22% HCl
• D. 20% HCl

Hint:

Azeotropic mixtures boil at a constant composition. For HCl and \( \text{H}_2\text{O} \), the azeotropic composition is 36% HCl.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding azeotropes.
An azeotropic mixture is a mixture that boils at a constant temperature and composition, meaning it cannot be separated by simple distillation. For HCl and \( \text{H}_2\text{O} \), the azeotropic mixture contains 36% HCl by mass. Step 2: Analysis of options.
(A) 48% HCl: This is not the azeotropic composition for HCl and water.
(B) 36% HCl: Correct — The azeotropic mixture of HCl and water contains 36% HCl.
(C) 22% HCl: This is not the azeotropic composition for HCl and water.
(D) 20% HCl: This is not the azeotropic composition for HCl and water.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (B) because the azeotropic mixture of HCl and \( \text{H}_2\text{O} \) contains 36% HCl.