16. The free energy ΔG of a dissolved solute

    (1) Increases with solute concentration.
    (2) decreases with solute concentration
    (3) is independent of solute concentration.
    (4) depends only on temperature.

Relationship Between Free Energy (ΔG) and Solute Concentration in Solutions
Understanding Free Energy (ΔG) in Solutions
Free energy (ΔG) is a thermodynamic property that identifies whether a process is spontaneous or not. In solutions, ΔG is a function of both temperature and concentration of the solute.

The relationship is outlined by the following equation:

              ΔG=ΔG∘+RTlnC

ΔG = Free energy of solute in solution

ΔG° = Standard free energy (at 1 M concentration)

R = Universal gas constant (8.314 J/mol·K)

T = Temperature in Kelvin

C = Solute concentration

Effect of Solute Concentration on Free Energy

1. Free Energy Increases with Solute Concentration ✅ (Correct Answer)
As ΔG = ΔG° + RT ln C, increasing C causes ln C to increase, and ΔG becomes more positive.

Increasing solute concentration is equal to increasing free energy, showing the trend towards a less spontaneous condition.

2. Free Energy Does Not Decrease with Concentration
Reduction of ΔG would demand that ln C be negative, only if C < 1 M.

This is not the rule, hence this is an incorrect answer.

3. Free Energy is Not Independent of Concentration
Since ΔG is directly dependent on concentration (C), it cannot be independent.

4. Free Energy Depends Only on Temperature
Although temperature (T) influences ΔG, so does concentration.

Free energy cannot be a function of just temperature.

Correct Answer: (1) Free Energy Increases with Solute Concentration

Significance of Free Energy in Chemical and Biological Systems

1. Chemical Reactions and Equilibria
Free energy changes dictate whether a reaction goes forward or stays at equilibrium.

2. Biological Transport and Homeostasis
Ion concentrations are controlled by cells to manage membrane potential and metabolic reactions.

3. Industrial and Pharmaceutical Applications
Solubility and drug formulation rely on ΔG and concentration gradients.

Conclusion
The free energy (ΔG) of a solute in solution is a function of concentration, as dictated by thermodynamic theory. This is a key concept in the understanding of chemical equilibria, biological processes, and industrial processes.