Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Chemistry

Chapter

Physical: Solutions

Question:

Which of the following is an example of minimum boiling azeotrope?

Options:

 Acetone and Chloroform

 

Nitric acid and Water

Ethanol and Water

Pyridine and Acetic acid

Correct Answer:

Ethanol and Water

Explanation:

The correct answer is OPTION 3 - Ethanol and Water

Ethanol and water form a minimum-boiling azeotrope with ethanol as the major component. 

A minimum boiling azeotrope is formed when a solution shows positive deviation from Raoult’s law, meaning the intermolecular forces between unlike molecules are weaker than those between like molecules. This results in higher vapour pressure and a lower boiling point than either of the pure components.

The ethanol–water mixture shows positive deviation from Raoult’s law and forms a minimum boiling azeotrope containing about 95.6% ethanol.

 Other options are incorrect: 

  • Acetone and Chloroform show negative deviation from Raoult’s law and form a maximum boiling azeotrope.
  • Nitric acid and Water form a maximum boiling azeotrope due to strong intermolecular attraction.
  • Pyridine and Acetic acid: These react as a base and an acid. They form strong intermolecular attractions, leading to negative deviation.