A solution is prepared by adding 4 g of a substance to 36 g of water. What is the mass percent of the solute?

The mass percent of a solute in a solution is calculated using the following formula:

Mass percent = (Mass of solute ÷ Total mass of solution) × 100

Given in the question:

• Mass of the solute = 4 g
• Mass of the solvent (water) = 36 g

First, calculate the total mass of the solution:

Total mass of solution = Mass of solute + Mass of solvent = 4 g + 36 g = 40 g

Now, calculate the mass percent:

Mass percent = (4 ÷ 40) × 100 = 1⁄10 × 100 = 10%

Thus, the mass percent of the solute is 10%.