Osmotic pressure has several important applications in various scientific and industrial fields. Primarily, it's used for determining molecular weights and in water purification processes.
Applications of Osmotic Pressure
Here are some key applications:
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Determining Molecular Weights: Osmotic pressure measurements can be used to determine the molecular weights of various compounds. This is particularly useful for large molecules like polymers where other methods might not be as effective.
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Desalination and Purification of Seawater (Reverse Osmosis): Reverse osmosis, an application of osmotic pressure, is used to purify water by removing salts and other impurities from seawater. This process involves applying pressure greater than the osmotic pressure to force water through a semipermeable membrane, leaving the salts behind.
- This technology is crucial for providing potable water in regions where freshwater resources are scarce.
- It's also used in various industrial processes for water purification.
Table Summarizing Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Molecular Weight Determination | Measuring osmotic pressure to calculate the molecular weight of compounds. |
| Reverse Osmosis | Purifying water by forcing it through a membrane using pressure exceeding osmotic pressure. |
