Question

In cold countries, ethylene glycol is added to water in the radiators of the car during winters. It results in:
(A) reduce viscosity
(B) reduce specific heat
(C) reduce freezing point
(D) reduce the boiling point

Answer 1

Hint: For this problem, we have to explain the property of ethylene glycol and how its addition can affect the pure water. Also, in cold countries, the radiators of the cars begin to freeze easily and to avoid this situation use ethylene glycol.

Complete step by step solution:
- In the given question, we have to explain the reason behind the addition of ethylene glycol in the water in the radiators of the car during the winter season.
- As we know that during the winter season, the radiators of the cars can freeze due to which the car can stop functioning and to avoid this condition we add ethylene glycol.
- Due to the addition of the ethylene glycol, the freezing point of the pure water of the radiator increases due to which the freezing of water will not take place early.
- For example, we know that the pure freezes at $\text{0}{}^\circ \text{C}$ but when we add 60% ethylene glycol in 40% water then the water will freeze at $\text{-45}{}^\circ \text{C}$.
- Due to which the radiator will not freeze so easily and the car can be used properly even at very low temperature.
- So, the addition of ethylene glycol will reduce the freezing point of the radiator of the car.

Therefore, option (C) is the correct answer.

Note: The ethylene glycol which used to reduce the freezing is also termed as an anti-freezing agent. Meanwhile, when ethylene glycol reduces the freezing point, it increases the boiling point of the liquid.