This portion of a phase diagram shows the vapor–pressure curves of a volatile solvent and of a solution of that solvent containing a nonvolatile solute. (b) What are the normal boiling points of the solvent and the solution? [Section 13.5]

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the phase diagram provided in the problem, focusing on the vapor-pressure curves for both the pure solvent and the solution.
2. Recall that the normal boiling point of a substance is the temperature at which its vapor pressure equals 1 atm (or 760 mmHg).
3. Locate the point on the vapor-pressure curve of the pure solvent where the pressure is 1 atm. The corresponding temperature is the normal boiling point of the solvent.
4. Similarly, locate the point on the vapor-pressure curve of the solution where the pressure is 1 atm. The corresponding temperature is the normal boiling point of the solution.
5. Note that the presence of a nonvolatile solute typically lowers the vapor pressure of the solution, resulting in a higher boiling point compared to the pure solvent. This phenomenon is known as boiling point elevation.

Key Concepts

Phase Diagram

A phase diagram is a graphical representation that shows the phases of a substance at various temperatures and pressures. It illustrates the conditions under which distinct phases, such as solid, liquid, and gas, coexist. Understanding phase diagrams is crucial for interpreting the behavior of substances, particularly in relation to boiling points and vapor pressures.

Vapor Pressure

Vapor pressure is the pressure exerted by a vapor in equilibrium with its liquid or solid form at a given temperature. It indicates how readily a substance will evaporate and is a key factor in determining boiling points. The normal boiling point of a liquid is defined as the temperature at which its vapor pressure equals atmospheric pressure, typically 1 atm.

Colligative Properties

Colligative properties are properties of solutions that depend on the number of solute particles in a given amount of solvent, rather than the identity of the solute. These properties include boiling point elevation and freezing point depression. When a nonvolatile solute is added to a solvent, the boiling point of the solution increases compared to that of the pure solvent, which is essential for determining the boiling points in the given question.