Question

The value of van't Hoff factor, i, for CH₃COOH solution in water will be

• A. Between 1 and 2
• B. Less than 1
• C. 2
• D. 1

Hint:

For weak electrolytes like acetic acid, the van't Hoff factor is always between 1 and 2, depending on the degree of dissociation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding van't Hoff factor.
The van't Hoff factor (i) represents the number of particles a solute dissociates into when dissolved in a solvent. For a non-electrolyte, i = 1, while for an electrolyte, i depends on the degree of dissociation.
Step 2: Behavior of acetic acid in water.
Acetic acid (CH₃COOH) is a weak electrolyte. It undergoes partial dissociation in water: \[ \text{CH₃COOH} \rightleftharpoons \text{CH₃COO}⁻ + \text{H}⁺ \] Thus, it does not fully dissociate into ions, and the van't Hoff factor (i) is greater than 1 but less than (2)
Step 3: Conclusion.
The van't Hoff factor for CH₃COOH solution in water is between 1 and 2 because it partially dissociates into ions.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{The van't Hoff factor is between 1 and (2)}} \]