1. What is Van't Hoff Factor?

Definition: The Van't Hoff factor (i) is the ratio of observed colligative property to theoretical colligative property.

Purpose: It accounts for the effect of solute dissociation or association on colligative properties like boiling point elevation and freezing point depression.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( i \) — Van't Hoff factor
• \( N_{ions} \) — Number of ions formed from one formula unit
• \( \alpha \) — Degree of dissociation (0 to 1)

Explanation: The formula shows how the Van't Hoff factor increases with both the number of ions and the degree of dissociation.

3. Importance of Van't Hoff Factor

Details: Correct calculation of the Van't Hoff factor is essential for accurate prediction of colligative properties in solutions of electrolytes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of ions (integer ≥ 1) and degree of dissociation (decimal between 0 and 1). The calculator will compute the Van't Hoff factor.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the range for Van't Hoff factor?
A: For dissociation: 1 ≤ i ≤ Nions. For association: 1/Nions ≤ i ≤ 1.

Q2: What's a typical degree of dissociation?
A: For strong electrolytes, α is typically close to 1. For weak electrolytes, it's less than 1.

Q3: What's i for NaCl in water?
A: For complete dissociation (α=1) and Nions=2, i=2. Actual values may be slightly less due to ion pairing.

Q4: How does temperature affect i?
A: Higher temperatures typically increase α (degree of dissociation), thus increasing i.

Q5: What if my solute associates instead of dissociates?
A: Use a different formula: i = 1 - (1 - 1/Nions)α, where α is degree of association.