How Does ΔS(total) = R*lnK Align with Entropy Being Zero at Equilibrium?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between the total entropy change at equilibrium and the equation ΔS(total) = R*lnK. Participants explore the implications of this equation in the context of thermodynamics, particularly focusing on the conditions at equilibrium and the definitions of the variables involved.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions how ΔS(total) can equal R*lnK if ΔS(total) is zero at equilibrium.
  • Another participant points out a potential unit mismatch in the equation, suggesting that the units of entropy and the ideal gas constant do not align.
  • A different participant asserts that standard entropy is represented as R lnK, but questions how a standard entropy change of zero relates to the equation.
  • Some participants emphasize the importance of understanding what K represents and its value at equilibrium, noting that K equals 1 at equilibrium.
  • Another participant argues that K does not necessarily equal 1 at equilibrium, raising further confusion about the relationship between total entropy change and the equation.
  • One participant reflects on the unusual presentation of the relationship between entropy and Gibbs free energy, suggesting that the text may be reworking familiar concepts in a new way.
  • There is a query about the difference between ΔS° and ΔS, and whether they are calculated in the same manner, indicating a need for clarification on these terms.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express confusion and disagreement regarding the interpretation of the equation ΔS(total) = R*lnK, particularly in relation to the conditions at equilibrium. There is no consensus on how the concepts are connected or how to resolve the apparent contradictions.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations in understanding the definitions of K and the conditions at equilibrium, as well as the potential for differing interpretations of entropy changes. The discussion remains open-ended with unresolved questions about the relationships between the variables.

jsmith613
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Given that at equilibrium total entropy change = 0
how does the following equation make sense
ΔS(total) = R*lnK
if ΔS(total) is 0?
thanks
 
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jsmith613 said:
how does the following equation make sense
ΔS(total) = R*lnK

Units don't match, so it doesn't make sense. Units of entropy are JK-1, units of ideal gas constant are JK-1mol-1.
 
no units of entropy are J K-1 mol-1
 
oh Standard entropy = R lnK
my bad

nonetheless how can a standard entropy change of zero have an equation R*lnK
 
Questions to ask yourself:

1.) What is K in your equation?

2.) What does K equal when the system is at equilibrium?

If you do this, the answer will fall right into your lap.
 
1) K is the equilibrium constant
2) when the system is at equilibrium K = 1

...so your saying that ONLY at the point of equilibrium does total entropy change = zero
...i am still confused
sorry :(
 
Mike H said:
Questions to ask yourself:

1.) What is K in your equation?

2.) What does K equal when the system is at equilibrium?

If you do this, the answer will fall right into your lap.

in fact K does NOT nessecaryily = 1 at equilibrium
...therefore how can the two be related
 
I have to say I've never seen this particular twist in presentation of thermo before, which is why my earlier "shot-from-the-hip" answer isn't right. And I should probably read more carefully...

It's as if your text/reference material is trying to rework what is normally seen via Gibbs free energy statements in terms of entropy for whatever inexplicable reason - if you'll remember, we have the well-known equality

ΔG = ΔG° + RT*ln(Q)

where ΔG = 0 at equilibrium, and as Q → K at equilibrium, we have

ΔG° = -RT*ln(K).

It seems as if your text is trying to do something similar in terms of ΔS and ΔS° for whatever reason, such that

ΔS = ΔS° - R*ln(K),

so when ΔS = 0,

ΔS° = R*ln(K).

I suppose it's valid, although I've never seen it presented this particular way, at least that I can recall.
 
  • #10
Mike H said:
I have to say I've never seen this particular twist in presentation of thermo before, which is why my earlier "shot-from-the-hip" answer isn't right. And I should probably read more carefully...

It's as if your text/reference material is trying to rework what is normally seen via Gibbs free energy statements in terms of entropy for whatever inexplicable reason - if you'll remember, we have the well-known equality

ΔG = ΔG° + RT*ln(Q)

where ΔG = 0 at equilibrium, and as Q → K at equilibrium, we have

ΔG° = -RT*ln(K).

It seems as if your text is trying to do something similar in terms of ΔS and ΔS° for whatever reason, such that

ΔS = ΔS° - R*ln(K),

so when ΔS = 0,

ΔS° = R*ln(K).

I suppose it's valid, although I've never seen it presented this particular way, at least that I can recall.

what is the difference between ΔS° and ΔS
and are they both calculated in the same way
 

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