Delta G and equalibrium constant question

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the Gibbs free energy change (ΔG) and the equilibrium constant (K) for a chemical reaction at 298 K. Participants explore the relationships between standard free energy of formation, enthalpy, and entropy, as well as the necessary equations to solve the problem presented in a homework context.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about how to find the equilibrium constant K without the amounts of reactants or products.
  • Another participant questions the relationship between standard free energy of formation, standard enthalpy of formation, and standard entropy of formation, seeking clarification on how to calculate the standard free energy change for the reaction.
  • A participant suggests using the equation ΔG = ΔH - TΔS to calculate the Gibbs free energy change, indicating a method for deriving ΔG from the free energy of formation values of the reactants and products.
  • A later reply confirms the approach but suggests removing the Δ symbols in the equations presented.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the approach to use the Gibbs free energy equation, but there is no consensus on how to proceed with the calculation due to the initial lack of information regarding the equilibrium constant K.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations related to the missing amounts of reactants and products, which are necessary for calculating K. There is also a dependence on the definitions of standard free energy and related thermodynamic quantities.

paulnz
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Homework Statement


The equation and data to which the question refers is in the attachment. I am just trying to do part (a) of the question at the moment:

Calculate ΔG and K, the equilibrium constant, for this reaction at 298 K.

Homework Equations


I would have thought that I would need to use the equation ΔG=-RTln K, but I am unsure how to find K, the equilibrium constant, because I am not given the amounts of the reactants or products.


The Attempt at a Solution



Perhaps there is a way to solve the problem using an equation I am not aware of? And I am not sure how to use the data given to solve the problem, if in fact it is needed for question (a) I have no idea.

 

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  • delta g and constant.jpg
    delta g and constant.jpg
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How is the standard free energy of formation of a species related to its standard enthalpy of formation, standard entropy of formation, and standard temperature 298? If you know the free energy of formation of each reactant and each product, how do you calculate the standard free energy change for the reaction?

If you can't answer these two questions, you need to go back to your textbook and find out.

Chet
 
Thanks, that gave me the direction I needed to go in.

I believe that I use the equation:
\Delta _{f}G^{o}=\Delta _{r}H^{o} - T\Delta _{r}S^{o}

and take the reactant values from the product? ie:

\Delta _{r}G^{o}=\Delta _{f}G^{o}(CuO)-(\Delta _{f}G^{o}(Cu)+\frac{1}{2}\Delta _{f}G^{o}(\frac{1}{2}O_{2}))
 
Last edited:
paulnz said:
Thanks, that gave me the direction I needed to go in.

I believe that I use the equation:
\Delta _{f}G^{o}=\Delta _{r}H^{o} - T\Delta _{r}S^{o}

and take the reactant values from the product? ie:

\Delta _{r}G^{o}=\Delta _{f}G^{o}(CuO)-(\Delta _{f}G^{o}(Cu)+\frac{1}{2}\Delta _{f}G^{o}(\frac{1}{2}O_{2}))

You have the right idea. Just one thing: lose the Δ's in your first equation, and, on the right hand side of your second equation.

Chet
 

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