A solution containing $10\, g/dm^3$ of urea $(NH_2CONH_2)$ is isotonic with a 10% solution of a non-volatile solute. The molecular mass of the solute is:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → $600\, g\, mol^{-1}$
Isotonic solutions are defined as solutions that have equal osmotic pressure.
$$\pi = CRT$$
Where:
- $\pi = \text{osmotic pressure}$
- $C = \text{molar concentration of the solute (mol/L)}$
- $R = \text{universal gas constant}$
- $T = \text{absolute temperature in Kelvin}$
Since temperature is same,
$C_1 = C_2$
For non-electrolytes, (urea & solute), the van't Hoff factor $i = 1$.
Step 1: Molarity of Urea Solution
Given:
- $10 \text{ g}$ urea per $\text{dm}^3$ ($= 1 \text{ L}$)
- Molar mass of urea $= 60 \text{ g/mol}$
$C_{urea} = \frac{10}{60} = 0.167 \text{ mol/L}$
Step 2: 10% Solution Meaning
$10\% \text{ (w/v)} = 10 \text{ g}$ solute in $100 \text{ mL}$ solution
$\Rightarrow 100 \text{ g}$ in $1 \text{ L}$ solution
Let molar mass of solute $= M$
$C_{solute} = \frac{100}{M}$
Step 3: Isotonic Condition
$0.167 = \frac{100}{M}$
$M = \frac{100}{0.167} \approx 600$