1. Understand the Concept of Boiling Point Elevation
* Boiling point elevation is the phenomenon where the boiling point of a solvent is increased when a non-volatile solute is added.
* The extent of elevation depends on the molality (moles of solute per kilogram of solvent) of the solution and a property called the molal boiling point elevation constant (Kb), which is specific to the solvent.
2. Determine the Relevant Constants
* For water:
* Kb = 0.512 °C/m
* Normal boiling point = 100 °C
3. Calculate the Change in Boiling Point (ΔTb)
* ΔTb = i * Kb * m
* i: van't Hoff factor (accounts for the number of particles the solute dissociates into)
* Kb: Molal boiling point elevation constant
* m: Molality of the solution
* Sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) dissociates into 3 ions in water:
* Na2SO4 → 2 Na+ + SO42-
* Therefore, i = 3
* Calculate ΔTb:
* ΔTb = (3) * (0.512 °C/m) * (2.35 m) = 3.62 °C
4. Calculate the New Boiling Point
* New boiling point = Normal boiling point + ΔTb
* New boiling point = 100 °C + 3.62 °C = 103.62 °C
Therefore, the boiling point of a 2.35 m solution of sodium sulfate is approximately 103.62 °C.