Question:medium

At \(T(K)\), \(x\) g of a non-volatile solid (molar mass \(78\ \mathrm{g\ mol^{-1}}\)) when added to \(0.5\) kg water, lowered its freezing point by \(1.0^\circ C\). What is \(x\) (in g)?
\[ K_f \text{ of water at } T(K)=1.86\ \mathrm{K\ kg\ mol^{-1}} \]

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For freezing point depression problems, always use \(\Delta T_f=K_f m\), where molality is moles of solute per kilogram of solvent.
Updated On: Jun 15, 2026
  • \(10.48\)
  • \(20.96\)
  • \(41.92\)
  • \(5.24\)
Show Solution

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Write the freezing point depression relation.
The lowering of freezing point depends on molality $m$ through \[ \Delta T_f = K_f\, m \] where $K_f$ is the cryoscopic constant of the solvent.
Step 2: List the data.
Here $\Delta T_f = 1.0$ K, $K_f = 1.86$ K kg mol$^{-1}$, the solvent water is $0.5$ kg, and the solute molar mass is $78$ g mol$^{-1}$.
Step 3: Express molality through mass and molar mass.
Since molality is moles of solute per kg of solvent, \[ m = \frac{x/78}{0.5} \] where $x$ is the unknown mass of solute in grams.
Step 4: Substitute into the depression formula.
Putting this into $\Delta T_f = K_f\, m$ gives \[ 1.0 = 1.86 \times \frac{x/78}{0.5} \]
Step 5: Solve for $x$.
Rearranging, \[ x = \frac{1.0 \times 0.5 \times 78}{1.86} \] \[ x = \frac{39}{1.86} \] \[ x \approx 20.96 \text{ g} \]
Step 6: State the answer.
About $20.96$ g of the solid is needed to lower the freezing point by $1.0^{\circ}$C.
\[ \boxed{20.96 \text{ g}} \]
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