Why is ΔH°rxn -1172 kJ for This Reaction?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of the standard enthalpy change (ΔH°rxn) for the reaction of ammonia and oxygen to form nitric oxide and water. Participants explore the implications of given enthalpy of formation values and the role of the enthalpy of formation for oxygen in the calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • The calculation for ΔH°rxn is based on the formula ΔH°rxn = ΔH°products - ΔH°reactants, as stated by the original poster.
  • The original poster expresses confusion about the necessity of the enthalpy of formation for O2 and questions the relevance of the provided enthalpy values for NO2 and HNO3.
  • One participant clarifies that the enthalpy of formation for O2 is defined as zero, which resolves some confusion regarding the calculation.
  • Another participant suggests that the inclusion of NO2 and HNO3 enthalpy values may be irrelevant or a result of careless copying from another problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the definition of the enthalpy of formation for O2 being zero, but there is no consensus on the relevance of the other enthalpy values provided.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the importance of understanding which enthalpy values are necessary for the calculation and raises questions about the inclusion of extraneous data in the problem statement.

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Homework Statement



Given the data in the table below, ΔH°rxn for the reaction

4NH3 (g) + 5O2 (g) → 4NO (g) + 6H2O (l)

is ________ kJ.

Substance ΔH∘f(kJ/mol)
H2O (l) -286
NO (g) 90
NO2 (g) 34
HNO3 (aq) -207
NH3 (g) -46

Homework Equations



ΔH°rxn = ΔH°products - ΔH°reactants

The Attempt at a Solution



ΔH°rxn = [(4x90)+(6x-286)] - [(4x-46)+(X)]

ΔH°rxn = (-1356) - (-184+X)

ΔH°rxn = -1356 + 184 - X

ΔH°rxn = -1172 + X

At first I selected, D.) The ΔH°f of O2 (g) is needed for the calculation.
However, apparently the answer is -1172, but I have no idea why. How can -1172 be the answer here? And why do they give me the enthalpy of formation for NO2 and HNO3 if neither of those compounds are in my reaction?
 
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Okay, I just realized the ΔH°f of O2 is defined to be zero...
Now it all makes sense.
 
Drakkith said:
I just realized the ΔH°f of O2 is defined to be zero...

And you answer - that it is needed - wasn't wrong in general. Defining ΔH°f of O2 as zero means you know its value ;)
 
Drakkith said:
And why do they give me the enthalpy of formation for NO2 and HNO3 if neither of those compounds are in my reaction?
why?
 
Either to confuse him, or because it was copy/pasted from another problem and someone didn't bother to leave just what is important for the question.
 

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