What is the effect of impurities on the surface tension of a liquid?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about how impurities influence the surface tension of a liquid, providing multiple choice answers to determine the correct understanding of this phenomenon.
Answer
Impurities can increase or decrease surface tension; highly soluble impurities increase it, and sparingly soluble ones decrease it.
Impurities can either increase or decrease the surface tension of a liquid. Highly soluble impurities generally increase surface tension, while sparingly soluble or insoluble impurities typically decrease it.
Answer for screen readers
Impurities can either increase or decrease the surface tension of a liquid. Highly soluble impurities generally increase surface tension, while sparingly soluble or insoluble impurities typically decrease it.
More Information
Surface tension is sensitive to changes in molecular interactions. Soluble impurities can enhance these interactions, while insoluble ones may disrupt them.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming impurities only decrease surface tension, whereas their effect depends on their solubility and the liquid's properties.
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