Finding the heat of combustion of magnesium

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the heat of combustion of magnesium using thermochemical equations. The participant initially calculated a value of -673.25 kJ/mol based on the difference between the heats of reaction for magnesium and magnesium oxide. After correcting an error in the heat of reaction for magnesium oxide from 1047.61 kJ/mol to 104.761 kJ/mol, the final calculated value was adjusted to -15 kJ/mol. The accepted value for the heat of combustion of magnesium is approximately -600 kJ/mol, indicating significant discrepancies likely due to the use of inaccurate calorimeters during the experiment.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermochemical equations
  • Knowledge of enthalpy changes (∆Hr)
  • Familiarity with calorimetry techniques
  • Basic chemistry concepts related to combustion reactions
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  • Research the standard enthalpy of formation for various compounds, including magnesium oxide
  • Learn about the differences between exothermic and endothermic reactions
  • Explore advanced techniques for accurate heat measurement in chemical reactions
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Chemistry students, laboratory technicians, and educators involved in thermodynamics and calorimetry experiments will benefit from this discussion.

Morhas
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Homework Statement



Finding the heat of combustion of magnesium.

Homework Equations



1.) MgO(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MgCl2(aq) + H2O(l) ∆Hr = 1047.61KJ/mol *This value was found experimentally
2.) Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MgCl2(aq) + H2(g) ∆Hr = 374.36KJ/mol*This value was found experimentally
3.) H2(g) + ½O2(g) → H2O(l) ∆Hr = -285.5 ∆HF =kJ/mol

The Attempt at a Solution



2 - 1 = Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq)+ MgCl2(aq) + H2O(l) → MgCl2(aq) + H2(g) + MgO(s) + 2HCl(aq)
= Mg(s) + H2O(l) → H2(g) + MgO(s)
Let 4 = Mg(s) + H2O(l) → H2(g) + MgO(s)

4+3 = Mg(s) + H2O(l) + H2(g) + ½O2(g) → H2(g) + MgO(s)+ H2O(l)
= Mg(s) + ½O2(g) → MgO(s)

2 – 1 = 374.36KJ/mol - 1047.61KJ/mol
= -673.25KJ/mol
Let 4 =-673.25KJ/mol
4 + 3 = -673.25KJ/mol + -285.5KJ/mol
= -958.75KJ/mol

Now, the accepted value is about 600kj/mol. When this lab was conducted, horribly inaccurate calorimeters were used. So wouldn't that mean the value I found should be closer to 0 than the accepted value?

Much thanks in advance.

EDIT

Found my first problem. ∆Hr for equation one is supposed to be 104.761KJ/mol not 1047.61KJ/mol.

Now my final value is -15kj/mol... Bleh. Mods can delete.
 
Last edited:
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I have answered your question elsewhere. For the record: is dissolution of Mg in HCl exothermic, or endothermic?
 

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