What is the term for the lowering of vapor pressure when a non-volatile solute is added to a solvent?
A
Osmotic pressure
B
Boiling point elevation
C
Freezing point depression
D
Vapor pressure lowering
Correct Answer: Option D — Vapor pressure lowering
Explanation:
Adding a non-volatile solute to a solvent lowers its vapor pressure because solute particles occupy some of the surface area, reducing the number of solvent molecules that can escape into the vapor phase.