How do I Calculate the Equilibrium Constant for the Formation of AlF6^3-?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the equilibrium constant, K, for the formation of the complex ion AlF63- based on a given free energy change. The focus is on the application of thermodynamic principles and the correct use of units in calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a calculation using the equation deltaG = -RT lnK, but encounters an issue with the resulting value of K.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of using consistent units, noting that the gas constant should be in Joules/(K·mol) while deltaG is given in kilojoules.
  • A third participant reiterates the need for unit consistency, suggesting that this is a common source of error.
  • There is a question raised about how ln(K) could yield K=0, prompting further clarification on the mathematical steps involved.
  • One participant claims to have resolved their confusion and provides a final value for K, suggesting it is 3.5 x 1025, although they mention this was from memory.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of unit consistency in calculations. However, there is no consensus on the correctness of the initial calculation or the final value of K, as one participant claims to have arrived at a different answer after re-evaluating their approach.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights potential limitations related to the initial use of units and the rearrangement of values in the calculation, but these issues remain unresolved in terms of their impact on the final answer.

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Equilibrium Frustration...

Ive been going over a chem paper and cannot seem to get any of the multiple choice given answers,

the question is as follows,

The free energy change for the formation of the complex ion [tex]AlF_6^3-[/tex] is -140. kJ at 25ºC. What is the equilibrium constant, K, for the reaction?

Ive got:

deltaG = -RT InK

hence,

-140 = -(8.3145)(298.15) InK

hence,

InK = -140 + (8.3145)(298.15)

InK = 2338.0

but this gives a value of K=0, which can't be correct, or if it is, the answer does not appear in the choices in my paper.

Any ideas,

Can anyone see where I am going wrong?

Thanks for your time.
 
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Match the units you use.
The value of the gas constant here is in Joules/(K*mol)
In the left hand side of the equation you used the value of deltaG in Kilo Joules.
 
Like Sid said, ALWAYS USE UNITS! UNITS! UNITS! The problem you are having is easy to spot when you simply use units.
 
And in addition to the problem with the units, how do you get K=0 from ln(K) = 2338 ?
 
I got k=0 because,

[tex]In(K) = 2338[/tex]
and,
e^In(K) = K
hence;
e^2330 = 0

Anyways,

I relooked over the problem, and it seems that i was simply not rearranging the values correctly. (Boy, did I feel super dopey!)
I ended up with the right answer in the end.
K = 3.5*10^25
I think it was from memory.

Thanks for the help everyone.
 
Last edited:

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