Answer:
i = 2.79
Explanation:
The excersise talks about the colligative property, freezing point depression.
Formula to calculate the freezing point of a solution is:
Freezing point of pure solvent - Freezing point of solution = m . Kf . i
Let's replace data given. (i = Van't Hoff factor, numbers of ions dissolved in solution)
48.1°C - 44°C = 0.15 m . 9.78°C/m . i
4.1°C / (0.15 m . 9.78°C/m) = i
i = 2.79
In this case, numbers of ions dissolved can decrease the freezing point of a solution, which is always lower than pure solvent.