Entropy in Chemistry: Questions and Answers

In summary, the conversation revolves around two questions regarding homework assignments. The first question asks about the existence of a spontaneous process where the entropy of the surrounding decreases, and what kind of reactions or processes fall into this category. The second question is about the condition of system equilibrium, specifically whether dSsys must equal zero or if it can also be equal to dSsurr.
  • #1
ada0713
45
0
I have two questions regaring my homework assignmnet

1) Is there a "spontaneous process" where the "entropy of the surrounding" decreases?
If so, what kind of reactions (or process) falls into this category? I was trying to
think of something but couldn't/

2) and this was is just to make sure I got it right.. Is it right that the system
is always at equilibrium when [delta S sys= delta S surr].. or do they all have
to euqal to zero?

thanks
 
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  • #2
any help please?
 
  • #3
1) Entropy is transferred when one object heats another. Can you think of an example when a system is heated by its surroundings?

2) The condition of system equilibrium is dSsys=0.
 

1. What is entropy in chemistry?

Entropy in chemistry is a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system. It is a thermodynamic quantity that describes the number of ways that a system can be arranged or distributed, and it is related to the amount of energy that is unavailable for work.

2. How is entropy related to the second law of thermodynamics?

The second law of thermodynamics states that the total entropy of an isolated system always increases over time. This means that systems tend to become more disordered or random over time, and entropy is a measure of this disorder. Therefore, entropy is closely related to the second law of thermodynamics.

3. How is entropy calculated?

Entropy is calculated using the equation ΔS = Q/T, where ΔS is the change in entropy, Q is the amount of heat transferred, and T is the temperature in Kelvin. This equation can be applied to both reversible and irreversible processes, with the resulting entropy value being positive for irreversible processes and zero for reversible processes.

4. How does entropy affect chemical reactions?

In chemical reactions, the change in entropy can affect the spontaneity of the reaction. If the overall change in entropy is positive, the reaction is more likely to occur spontaneously. On the other hand, if the change in entropy is negative, the reaction may require an input of energy to occur.

5. How can entropy be controlled or manipulated in a chemical system?

Entropy can be controlled or manipulated in a chemical system by changing the temperature, pressure, or concentration of the system. Other factors such as the presence of catalysts or the use of different reaction pathways can also affect the overall entropy of a reaction. Additionally, the isolation or confinement of a system can also impact the entropy of a system.

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