0
$\begingroup$

Let's assume a mixture which can be heated without decomposing. This site explains that while pure substances have a sharply defined melting point and boiling point, mixtures tend to have a melting range. But what about the boiling point of mixtures? Is it always a point, always a range, or sometimes a point and something a range? If it is "sometimes", is one of the cases the rule and the other the exception, or are both pretty common?

To keep the question simple, we can stay with atmospheric pressure.

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
4
  • 2
    $\begingroup$ If there is a eutectic, then at that composition it is a single melting point. Quite often for some random mix of elements A and B it will be a range. The binary phase diagram will show what you need to know. $\endgroup$
    – Jon Custer
    Dec 1, 2017 at 22:32
  • $\begingroup$ Assuming the components are miscible, a mixture has a distinct boiling point, which depends on the precise molar fraction of the solution. Look up vapour-liquid diagram. $\endgroup$
    – Gert
    Dec 1, 2017 at 22:53
  • $\begingroup$ See e.g. chemguide.co.uk/physical/phaseeqia/nonideal.html $\endgroup$
    – Gert
    Dec 1, 2017 at 23:10
  • $\begingroup$ Mixture is a more general term. Solution can be of liquids or a liquid(s) and solid. Each case is different tough the relevant one is mentioned in the comment by Gert. $\endgroup$
    – Alchimista
    Dec 2, 2017 at 9:50

0

Reset to default

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.