JEE Main Physical Chemistry: Equilibrium, Electrochemistry & Kinetics Guide

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Physical Chemistry is the most calculation-intensive part of JEE Main Chemistry. It requires understanding concepts AND applying formulas correctly. Here is a focused guide to the highest-weightage topics.

Chemical Equilibrium (2-3 questions)

Kp, Kc, Kx relationships (Kp = Kc(RT)^Δn). Le Chatelier's principle — effect of pressure, temperature, concentration on equilibrium. Degree of dissociation calculations. Common question: find equilibrium concentration given initial conditions and Kc.

Electrochemistry (2 questions)

Nernst equation: E = E° - (RT/nF)ln Q. Standard cell potential from reduction potentials. Electrolysis: Faraday's laws (mass deposited = EIt/96500). Conductance: molar, specific, equivalent. Kohlrausch's law.

Chemical Kinetics (2 questions)

Rate law: rate = k[A]^m[B]^n. Half-life for first-order: t½ = 0.693/k. Arrhenius equation: k = Ae^(-Ea/RT). JEE Main: given half-life, find rate constant. Or given two temperatures and rates, find activation energy.

Solutions and Colligative Properties

Raoult's law, vapour pressure lowering. Elevation of boiling point (ΔTb = Kb × m). Depression of freezing point (ΔTf = Kf × m). Osmotic pressure (π = MRT). Abnormal molecular masses from van't Hoff factor (i).

Mole Concept (Foundation)

Master mole concept before all else — it appears in every Physical Chemistry problem. Practice: limiting reagent, concentration calculations (molarity, molality, mole fraction), stoichiometry with limiting reagent.

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