Molality calculation — A solution is prepared by dissolving 1 kilomole of a nonvolatile solute in 2000 kg of solvent. What is the molality (mol/kg) of the solution?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 0.5

Explanation:


Introduction:
Molality is a composition unit commonly used in colligative property calculations because it is independent of temperature (mass-based rather than volume-based). This problem is a direct substitution exercise.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Moles of solute = 1 kmol = 1000 mol.
  • Mass of solvent = 2000 kg.
  • Ideal dilute solution; unit consistency required.


Concept / Approach:
Molality m is defined as m = moles of solute / kilograms of solvent. No information about solute molar mass is needed since moles are given directly.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Convert 1 kmol to mol: 1 kmol = 1000 mol.Apply definition: m = 1000 mol / 2000 kg.Compute: m = 0.5 mol/kg.



Verification / Alternative check:
Dimensional check: (mol) / (kg) → mol/kg, correct for molality.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 2.0 and 1.0 assume fewer kilograms of solvent or more moles.
  • 0.25 or 0.05 would require greater solvent mass (or fewer moles) than provided.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing molality with molarity; forgetting to convert kmol to mol.



Final Answer:
0.5

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