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 helps determine the effect of solute particles on osmotic pressure and other colligative properties.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The osmotic pressure is divided by the product of concentration, gas constant, and temperature to determine the factor.
Details: This factor is crucial for understanding how solutes behave in solution, particularly for electrolytes that dissociate into multiple particles.
Tips: Enter the osmotic pressure in Pascals, molar concentration in mol/L, and temperature in Kelvin. All values must be > 0.
Q1: What is the expected range for Van't Hoff factor?
A: For non-electrolytes, i ≈ 1. For electrolytes, it depends on degree of dissociation (e.g., NaCl → i ≈ 2, CaCl₂ → i ≈ 3).
Q2: Why is temperature important in this calculation?
A: Temperature affects both the osmotic pressure and the kinetic energy of particles in solution.
Q3: What units should I use for concentration?
A: The calculator uses mol/L (molarity). Make sure your concentration matches this unit.
Q4: How do I measure osmotic pressure?
A: Osmotic pressure can be measured experimentally using an osmometer or calculated from other colligative properties.
Q5: What does a Van't Hoff factor less than 1 indicate?
A: Values < 1 may indicate solute association or other non-ideal behavior in solution.