Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: both heat of mixing and volume change on mixing equal zero
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
In solution thermodynamics, an ideal liquid solution (often called Raoultian) is a reference model used to estimate vapor–liquid equilibrium and colligative properties. Knowing the defining criteria of ideality helps engineers decide when Raoult's law can be applied without activity coefficients.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
For an ideal solution, intermolecular interactions between unlike molecules are effectively the same as those between like molecules. As a result, mixing neither releases nor absorbs heat and does not cause volume contraction or expansion. Formally, ΔH_mix = 0 and ΔV_mix = 0, and activity coefficients γ_i ≈ 1 across the full composition range.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the hallmark of ideality: no energetic or volumetric driving force upon mixing.Translate to thermodynamic statements: ΔH_mix = 0 and ΔV_mix = 0.Select the option that includes both conditions.
Verification / Alternative check:
Classic near-ideal pairs (e.g., benzene–toluene) show negligible heats and volume changes on mixing, supporting the criteria experimentally.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Only heat or only volume being zero is insufficient; claiming neither needs to be zero contradicts the definition; activity coefficients greater than one indicate positive deviation, not ideality.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “ideal gas” with “ideal solution”; assuming only ΔH_mix matters but not ΔV_mix.
Final Answer:
both heat of mixing and volume change on mixing equal zero
Discussion & Comments