Question

What is the Van't Hoff factor (\(i\)) for a non-electrolyte?

• A. \(0\)
• B. \(1\)
• C. \(2\)
• D. \(3\)

Hint:

For non-electrolytes (like glucose or urea), there is no ionization in solution, so the Van't Hoff factor \(i = 1\).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The goal is to determine the value of the Van't Hoff factor for substances that do not ionize or associate in a solution.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
The Van't Hoff factor (\( i \)) is defined as:
\[ i = \frac{\text{Actual number of particles in solution after dissociation/association}}{\text{Number of formula units initially dissolved}} \]
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
1. A non-electrolyte is a substance (like glucose, urea, or sucrose) that dissolves in a solvent but does not break apart into ions.
2. Since no dissociation or association takes place, 1 mole of solute added results in exactly 1 mole of particles in the solution.
3. Therefore, the ratio \( i = \frac{1}{1} = 1 \).
Step 4: Final Answer:
For a non-electrolyte, the Van't Hoff factor \( i \) is 1.