Chapter 11, Problem 124QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Using the given statement, the weak and strong electrolyte substance is to be identified.

Concept Introduction:

The vapour pressure is the pressure of a vapour in equilibrium with its liquid phase at a given temperature in a closed system. Thus, there is equilibrium between the molecules at the surface of the liquid and with the gas phase molecules.

When a solute is added in the liquid, some of the solvent molecules at the surface are replaced by the solute molecules. As a result, the number of molecules in the gas phase is decreased leading to the decrease in vapour pressure.

Strong electrolytes are easily dissociated than weak electrolytes. Thus, strong electrolytes give a greater number of ions in solution which leads to the decrease in vapor pressure.