01 If the observed colligative effect is greater than expected, what may it indicate about the solute?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. solute is dissociating
Explanation: Colligative effects depend on the number of effective solute particles. During dissociation, one formula unit separates into two or more ions, increasing the particle count. The observed vapour-pressure lowering, boiling-point elevation or freezing-point depression can therefore exceed the value calculated for undissociated molecules. Association has the opposite effect because it reduces the number of effective particles.