Home MCQs EEJ MAIN Chemistry Question #7523
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EEJ MAIN Chemistry QUESTION #7523
Question 1

Among the following 1 molal aqueous solutions of cobalt complexes, which will show the highest freezing point (least depression)?

  • $[\text{Co(H}_2\text{O)}_4\text{Cl}_2]\text{Cl}\cdot\text{2H}_2\text{O}$
  • $[\text{Co(H}_2\text{O)}_3\text{Cl}_3]\cdot\text{3H}_2\text{O}$✔️
  • $[\text{Co(H}_2\text{O)}_6]\text{Cl}_3$
  • $[\text{Co(H}_2\text{O)}_5\text{Cl}]\text{Cl}_2\cdot\text{H}_2\text{O}$
Correct Answer Explanation

The depression in freezing point $\Delta T_f = i \cdot K_f \cdot m$, where $i$ = van't Hoff factor (number of particles from ionization).

The compound with the fewest ions in solution gives the smallest $\Delta T_f$ and therefore the highest freezing point.

  • $[\text{Co(H}_2\text{O)}_4\text{Cl}_2]\text{Cl}$: ionizes to give 2 particles → $i = 2$
  • $[\text{Co(H}_2\text{O)}_3\text{Cl}_3]$: non-electrolyte → $i = 1$ (no ions) — smallest depression
  • $[\text{Co(H}_2\text{O)}_6]\text{Cl}_3$: gives 4 particles → $i = 4$
  • $[\text{Co(H}_2\text{O)}_5\text{Cl}]\text{Cl}_2$: gives 3 particles → $i = 3$

Highest freezing point → smallest $i$ → Option B ($i=1$).