Define ideal solution.

Define ideal solution.

Ans.

An ideal solution is a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances that obeys Raoult’s law over the entire range of composition and temperature. In an ideal solution, the interactions between the molecules of the different components are very similar to the interactions between molecules of the same component.

Key characteristics of an ideal solution include:

1. Raoult’s Law: Raoult’s law states that the partial vapor pressure of each component of an ideal solution is directly proportional to its mole fraction in the solution and the vapor pressure of the pure component. Mathematically, for an ideal solution, ��=����∗Pi​=xi​Pi∗​, where ��Pi​ is the partial vapor pressure of component $i$, ��xi​ is its mole fraction in the solution, and ��∗Pi∗​ is the vapor pressure of the pure component.

2. No energy effects upon mixing: In an ideal solution, there is no heat evolved or absorbed when the components are mixed. The enthalpy of mixing is zero.

3. No volume effects upon mixing: The volume of an ideal solution is equal to the sum of the volumes of its components. There is no volume change upon mixing.

4. No deviation from Raoult’s law: The experimental vapor pressure-composition curves for an ideal solution lie along a straight line between the vapor pressures of the pure components.

It is important to note that ideal solutions are idealizations and may not exist in reality. However, certain dilute solutions, such as solutions of nonpolar solutes in nonpolar solvents or solutions of small amounts of solutes in very large quantities of solvent, can exhibit behavior that closely approximates that of an ideal solution.