Question

Which is the most appropriate method for determining the molar masses of biomolecules?

(a) Relative lowering of vapor pressure

(b) Elevation of boiling point

(c) Depression in freezing point

(d) Osmosis

I got this question in semester exam.

This interesting question is from Colligative Properties and Determination of Molar Mass in division Solutions of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

Right answer is (d) Osmosis

To elaborate: Osmotic pressure method has the greatest advantage over other methods that even for very dilute concentrations it gives a large magnitude. This would not be true in case other methods. It is highly useful for biomolecules since they are unstable at extremely high and low temperatures thus eradicating the method using boiling and freezing points.