Solutions and vapor pressure

In summary, when benzene and toluene combine to form an ideal solution, the mole fractions of benzene and toluene can be determined by using the equation Pv=xaPa + xbPb, where Pv is the vapor pressure of the solution, Pa and Pb are the vapor pressures of benzene and toluene, and xa and xb are the mole fractions of benzene and toluene. In this case, if the vapor pressure of the solution is 400 mmHg and the vapor pressures of pure benzene and toluene are 800 mmHg and 300 mmHg, respectively, the mole fractions of benzene and toluene are 0.2 and 0.8,
  • #1
brake4country
216
7

Homework Statement


Benzene and toluene combine to form an ideal solution. At 80 C, vapor pressure of pure benzene is 800 mmHg and the vapor pressure of pure toluene is 300 mmHg. If the vapor pressure of the solution is 400 mmHg, what are the mole fractions of benzene and toluene?
(A) 60% benzene and 40% toluene
(B) 50% benzene and 50% toluene
(C) 40% benzene and 60% touene
(D) 20% benzene and 80% toluene

Homework Equations


Pv=xaPa + xbPb

The Attempt at a Solution


I could easily back solve by trying each one out. D is correct. (0.2)(800) + (0.8)(300) = 400 but I really wanted to try this problem using the equation above. Instead of backsolving, is there an accurate way to put this formula to use? Thanks in advance.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Hint: xa + xb = ?
 
  • #3
but we don't know the moles of either benzene or toluene. Is it safe to assume 100 g of each converted to moles?
 
Last edited:
  • #4
You don't need moles nor masses. Deal with mole fractions only.

What is the definition of a mole fraction in a mixture? What do the mole fractions of a mixture always add up to?
 

What is a solution?

A solution is a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances. In a solution, the solute (substance being dissolved) is evenly distributed throughout the solvent (substance doing the dissolving).

What is vapor pressure?

Vapor pressure is the pressure exerted by the vapor of a substance in equilibrium with its liquid or solid phase at a given temperature. It is a measure of the tendency of a substance to escape from its liquid or solid state and enter the gas phase.

How does temperature affect vapor pressure?

As temperature increases, the vapor pressure of a substance also increases. This is because at higher temperatures, the molecules of the substance have more energy and are more likely to escape from the liquid or solid phase and enter the gas phase.

What is the difference between a solute and a solvent?

A solute is a substance that is being dissolved in a solution, while a solvent is the substance that is doing the dissolving. In a solution, the solute is present in a smaller amount than the solvent.

How does the concentration of a solution affect its vapor pressure?

The concentration of a solution can affect its vapor pressure. In general, as the concentration of the solute in a solution increases, the vapor pressure of the solution decreases. This is because the presence of the solute interferes with the escape of molecules from the liquid phase, resulting in a lower vapor pressure.

Similar threads

  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
7K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
2
Replies
36
Views
7K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
3K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
12K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
5K
Back
Top