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Question:

The value of osmotic potential of an electrolyte is always more than, less than, or the same as a non-electrolyte?

None of the above

More than non-electrolyte

Less than non-electrolyte

Same as non-electrolyte

Solution:

Osmotic potential refers to the effect of dissolved solutes on the water potential. Since electrolytes dissociate into their component ions, the increased number of dissolved particles compared to non-electrolytes imparts more reduction in the water potential of a solution with reference to the state of pure water. So, the osmotic potential of the electrolyte is more negative than that of non-electrolytes. Hence, the correct option is More than non-electrolyte.