Module 2 Discussion on Colligative Properties
Read the lecture notes and watch the videos on the colligative property topic in this Module.
Discussion Instructions:
We will have an online discussion focused on deepening our understanding of colligative properties applications. Select one topic from section 1 and one from section 2. Discuss the topic selected. The discussion post may not be limited to explaining a few sentences about the topic from your class notes.
To prepare for the discussion, thoroughly explain your chosen colligative property, including:
Definition and any equation that describes the process
Principles and assumptions underlying why the property occurs
Factors that affect the magnitude of the change (temperature, concentration, etc.)
One real-world example application where this property is manipulated ( as given in the topic)
Have an open discussion on why thoroughly understanding these properties is important
The following are the two sections to select the topics from:
1. Freezing Point Depression/Boiling Point Elevation:
Applying freezing point depression: Explore how road salt, antifreeze, and de-icing fluids for aircraft rely on freezing point depression.
Using boiling point elevation in cooking: Explain how adding salt or sugar affects water’s boiling point and how this impacts cooking methods and times. Tie to molal boiling point constant.
Surviving extreme cold with colligative properties: Discuss real cases where freezing point depression helped prevent freezing in extremely cold environments – ties to cryobiology and more.
Testing for adulterants using boiling point changes: Explain how boiling point elevation exposed adulteration of milk and other foods historically. Interesting application.
2. Osmotic Pressure:
Osmosis in biological systems: Discuss the role of osmotic pressure in essential processes like rehydrating from fluids, kidney function, edema, and more.
Engineering applications of osmotic pressure: From desalination to power generation, osmotic pressure has clever engineering uses. Discuss the design and efficacy of osmosis-based technologies.
Osmotic pressure’s role in food preservation: Explore how controlling osmotic pressure helps preserve foods via dehydration, salting, syrups, and more. Relate to historical and modern preservation tactics.