To find the freezing point of the solution, we need to use the formula for freezing point depression:
Freezing Point Depression Formula
The formula is:
ΔT_f = K_f × m
Where:
- ΔT_f = change in freezing point
- K_f = freezing point depression constant (1.86 K kg/mol for water)
- m = molality of the solution
Step 1: Calculate Moles of Ethylene Glycol
The molar mass of ethylene glycol (C₂H₆O₂) is approximately 62.07 g/mol. To find the number of moles:
moles = mass (g) / molar mass (g/mol)
moles = 45 g / 62.07 g/mol ≈ 0.724 moles
Step 2: Calculate Molality
Molality (m) is defined as moles of solute per kilogram of solvent:
mass of water = 600 g = 0.600 kg
molality (m) = moles of solute / mass of solvent (kg)
molality = 0.724 moles / 0.600 kg ≈ 1.207 mol/kg
Step 3: Calculate Freezing Point Depression
Now, substitute the values into the freezing point depression formula:
ΔT_f = 1.86 K kg/mol × 1.207 mol/kg ≈ 2.245 K
Step 4: Determine New Freezing Point
The normal freezing point of water is 273 K. Therefore, the new freezing point is:
Freezing point = 273 K - ΔT_f
Freezing point = 273 K - 2.245 K ≈ 270.755 K
Final Answer
Rounding to two decimal places, the freezing point of the solution is approximately 270.76 K. Among the options provided, the closest answer is:
B. 270.9 K