Question:medium

A solution of acetone in ethanol

Updated On: Jun 11, 2026
  • behaves like a near ideal solution
  • obeys Raoults law
  • shows a negative deviation from Raoults law
  • shows a positive deviation from Raoults law
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

A solution of acetone in ethanol exhibits a positive deviation from Raoult's law. Let's understand why this is the case:

  1. Understanding Raoult's Law: Raoult's law states that the vapor pressure of a solution is dependent on the vapor pressure of each chemical component and the mole fraction of the component present in the solution. Mathematically, it is represented as: P_{\text{solution}} = x_1 P_1^0 + x_2 P_2^0, where x_1 and x_2 are the mole fractions of components 1 and 2, and P_1^0 and P_2^0 are their respective vapor pressures.
  2. Deviations from Raoult's Law: There are two types of deviations:
    • Positive Deviation: Occurs when the interactions between different molecules (A-B) are weaker than the interactions between similar molecules (A-A or B-B). This results in a higher vapor pressure than predicted by Raoult’s law.
    • Negative Deviation: Occurs when the interactions between different molecules are stronger, leading to a lower vapor pressure.
  3. Application to Acetone and Ethanol: In the case of acetone and ethanol:
    • Both acetone and ethanol have strong hydrogen bonds in their pure forms (ethanol especially).
    • When mixed, the hydrogen bond interactions between ethanol molecules and the dipole-induced interactions with acetone are weaker than the hydrogen bonds present in pure ethanol or pure acetone solutions.
    • Therefore, the solution has a higher vapor pressure than expected, showing positive deviation.
  4. Conclusion: The correct answer is that the solution of acetone in ethanol shows a positive deviation from Raoults law.
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