The degree of dissociation ($α$) of a weak electrolyte $A_xB_y$ is related to van't Hoff factor (i) by the expression:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → $α = (i-1)/(x + y -1)$
For an electrolyte:
$A_x B_y \rightleftharpoons xA^{y+} + yB^{x-}$
If the degree of dissociation = $\alpha$.
From 1 mole:
- Undissociated $= 1 - \alpha$
- Dissociated $= \alpha$
- Ions formed $= x + y$ per mole dissociated
Total particles after dissociation:
$(1 - \alpha) + \alpha(x + y)$
Van’t Hoff factor ($i$)
$i = \text{Total particles after dissociation}$
$i = (1 - \alpha) + \alpha(x + y)$
$i = 1 - \alpha + \alpha x + \alpha y$
$i = 1 + \alpha(x + y - 1)$
Rearranging for $\alpha$
$i - 1 = \alpha(x + y - 1)$
$\alpha = \frac{i - 1}{x + y - 1}$