Relation between gibbs free energy and equilibrium constant

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between Gibbs free energy (ΔG) and the equilibrium constant (Keq), including the derivation of relevant equations such as ΔG = ΔG° + RT ln(Q) and its application to the Nernst equation. Participants explore theoretical aspects, derivations, and specific examples related to thermodynamics and chemical equilibria.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses familiarity with the equation ΔG = ΔG° + RT ln(Q) but struggles to derive it, seeking assistance for its application in deriving the Nernst equation.
  • Another participant suggests a method to derive the Nernst equation by substituting ΔG and ΔG° with their respective expressions involving the Faraday constant (F) and the equilibrium constant, noting that this approach may not be suitable for advanced classes.
  • Several participants inquire about the relationship between the reaction quotient (Q) and the equilibrium constant (Keq), with one participant asking for clarification on the equivalence of Q and Keq.
  • There is confusion regarding the notation of Q, with one participant expressing that using 'q' is misleading and associating it with heat instead.
  • A participant provides a specific example involving the reaction of nitrogen and hydrogen to form ammonia, calculating ΔG using both ΔG = -RT ln(Keq) and ΔG = ΔH - TΔS, and showing numerical agreement between the two approaches.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the derivation of the equations or the clarity of the notation used for Q. Multiple viewpoints are expressed regarding the relationship between Q and Keq, and the discussion remains unresolved on these points.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note potential confusion arising from the use of 'q' in place of 'Q', and there are references to specific conditions and assumptions in the derivations that may not be universally applicable.

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I am familiar with the equation ΔG=ΔG°+RT ln(Q).But I can't derive it.We have to use the equation to derive nernst equation. So please help.
 
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I don't remember the derivation of the above equation off the top of my head, but I'm sure you can google it or look in any intro to the Thermodynamics or Physical Chemistry text.

As far as deriving the Nernst equation from what you have:

ΔG = -nFE and ΔG° = -nFE°

plug those two into ΔG = ΔG° + RTlnQ and do some simple algebraic rearranging.

This may not be useful to you if you are in an advanced class which requires derivations of the equations that I have taken for granted. In other words this is a pseudo-derivation applicable to a freshman level Gen. Chem. course.
 
Last edited:
morrobay said:
In this reference , post #2 PhaseShifter states: q = Keq
Can someone show how this is ?

Do you know what Q is? (To be honest using q is IMHO confusing).
 
Borek said:
Do you know what Q is? (To be honest using q is IMHO confusing).

Thanks, was looking at q as in heat. There is not a question on the equivalence of ΔG for
ΔG = -RTlnKeq and ΔG = ΔH - TΔS as Ill show for anyone who wants to see it
N2 + 3H2 --> 2NH3
Keq = (NH3)2/(N2)(H2)3 = 6.73 * 105 , lnK=13.4 , RT= 2.473 kJ/m So ΔG = -RTlnK = -33kJ/m
In agreement with ΔG = ΔH - TΔS
ΔH = -92kJ/m, T = 298K , ΔS = -198J/m
-33kJ/m = -92kJ/m + 59kJ/m
 
Last edited:

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