Is freezing point always depressed by a solute?

In summary, the presence of a solute always depresses the freezing point due to the disruption of the solid's lattice structure. This is also affected by the strength of solute-solvent interactions. Amorphous solids do not have a freezing point since they lack a defined structure, but they can undergo changes of state through a process called vitrification.
  • #1
Evis
5
0

Homework Statement


Is the freezing point always depressed by a solute even if solute-solvent interactions are stronger than solute-solute and solvent-solvent interaction? What about amorphous solids?

2. Relevant knowledge
According to my chemistry teacher's powerpoints, the freezing point is always depressed by the presence of a solute because the solute particles disrupt the lattice structure of the solid.

The Attempt at a Solution


Thus, the solution remains liquid at lower than normal temperatures due to the added difficulty of forming the solid structure. The stronger solute-solvent interactions add to this disorder.

In amorphous solids where there is little/no organized set structure to speak of, I don't know how solute particles would interfere unless the solute forms its own competing structure as a solid. Otherwise, I'm in the dark.
 
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  • #2
Amorphous solids don't have a freezing point.
 
  • #3
Do amorphous solids not have changes of state?
 
  • #4
Not at a constant temperature. Google vitrification.
 

FAQ: Is freezing point always depressed by a solute?

How does adding a solute affect the freezing point of a solution?

When a solute is added to a solvent, it disrupts the crystal lattice structure of the solvent. This disruption makes it more difficult for the solvent molecules to form organized bonds and freeze, resulting in a lower freezing point.

Is the depression of freezing point by a solute always the same?

No, the amount of depression in freezing point depends on the concentration of the solute. The more solute particles in the solution, the greater the depression in freezing point will be.

Can any type of solute cause a depression in freezing point?

Yes, any type of solute can cause a depression in freezing point as long as it is able to dissolve in the solvent. However, the amount of depression may vary depending on the properties of the solute.

Does the size of the solute particles affect the freezing point depression?

Yes, the size of the solute particles can affect the freezing point depression. Smaller solute particles have a larger surface area, which allows for more interactions with the solvent molecules and can result in a greater depression in freezing point.

Is the freezing point depression a reversible process?

Yes, the freezing point depression is a reversible process. When the solution is heated, the solute particles will dissolve and the solvent molecules can form bonds again, returning the solution to its original freezing point.

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