Question

the diagram below shows a solution with one solute. the solution fills a closed container that is divided by a membrane. the membrane is permeable to the solute particles. the volume on the left is half the volume on the right. which of the following statements describes how the solution will change over time? for the solute particles to reach equilibrium, more particles will move across the membrane from the right to the left. for the solute particles to reach equilibrium, more particles will move across the membrane from the left to the right. because the solute particles have reached equilibrium, the same number of particles will move across the membrane in each direction.

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate initial solute concentrations

The left side has a volume of \(1\space mL\) and \(2\) solute particles. The concentration \(C_{left}=\frac{2}{1} = 2\space particles/mL\). The right - side has a volume of \(2\space mL\) and \(4\) solute particles. The concentration \(C_{right}=\frac{4}{2}=2\space particles/mL\).

Step2: Analyze particle movement at equilibrium

Since the membrane is permeable to solute particles and the initial concentrations are equal (\(C_{left}=C_{right}\)), at equilibrium, the rate of particle movement from left to right is equal to the rate of particle movement from right to left.

Answer:

Because the solute particles have reached equilibrium, the same number of particles will move across the membrane in each direction.