Question

Which contains more solute particles: a 0.10M aqueous solution of methanol (CH₃OH) or a 0.10 M aqueous solutions of salt (NaCl)?

A. They contain the same number of solute particles
B. The salt solution contains twice as many particles as methanol solution
C. The methanol solution contains three times as many particles as the salt solution
D. Neither solution contains solute particles
E. The maternal solution contains twice as many particles as the salt solution

Answer 1

The correct answer to the question is: B. The salt solution contains twice as many particles as the methanol solution

Step-by-step explanation:

When comparing the number of solute particles in aqueous solutions with the same molarity, it is essential to consider the nature of the solute, whether it is molecular or ionic. A 0.10M solution of methanol (CH₃OH), which is a molecular compound, will separate into individual molecules in solution.

Thus, for every mole of methanol dissolved, there is 1 mole of particles in the solution. On the other hand, a 0.10M solution of salt (NaCl) will dissociate into ions, specifically sodium ions (Na+) and chloride ions (Cl⁻). Since NaCl is an ionic compound, it separates into two ions for every formula unit that dissolves.

This means that a 0.10M NaCl solution actually has a total solute particle concentration of 0.20M because it yields 0.10M Na+ ions and 0.10M Cl⁻ ions.