The amino acid alanine has two isomers, -alanine and -alanine. When equal masses of these two compounds are dissolved in equal mass of a solvent, the solution of -alanine freezes at relatively lower t

Question

The amino acid alanine has two isomers, $\alpha$-alanine and $\beta$-alanine. When equal masses of these two compounds are dissolved in equal mass of a solvent, the solution of $\alpha$-alanine freezes at relatively lower temperature. Which form, $\alpha$-alanine or $\beta$-alanine, has the larger equilibrium constant for ionization?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: A. A lower freezing temperature indicates a larger freezing point depression (), which implies a larger van't Hoff factor (). A larger means the substance undergoes a greater degree of ionization, which corresponds to a larger equilibrium constant for ionization. Therefore, -alanine has the larger equilibrium constant. Therefore, correct answer is A.

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