Van't Hoff Factor Formula:
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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.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows how the Van't Hoff factor increases with both the number of ions and the degree of dissociation.
Details: Correct calculation of the Van't Hoff factor is essential for accurate prediction of colligative properties in solutions of electrolytes.
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.
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.