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Ch.19 - Chemical Thermodynamics
Chapter 19, Problem 59a

Using data from Appendix C, calculate ΔG° for the following reactions. Indicate whether each reaction is spontaneous at 298 K under standard conditions. (a) 2 SO2(g) + O2(g) → 2 SO3(g)

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First, identify the standard Gibbs free energy of formation (ΔG°f) values for each reactant and product from Appendix C. You will need the values for SO<sub>2</sub>(g), O<sub>2</sub>(g), and SO<sub>3</sub>(g).
Write the balanced chemical equation: 2 SO<sub>2</sub>(g) + O<sub>2</sub>(g) → 2 SO<sub>3</sub>(g).
Apply the formula for calculating the standard Gibbs free energy change (ΔG°) for the reaction: ΔG° = ΣΔG°f(products) - ΣΔG°f(reactants). Remember to multiply the ΔG°f values by their respective stoichiometric coefficients in the balanced equation.
Substitute the ΔG°f values into the equation and perform the calculation to find ΔG° for the reaction.
Determine if the reaction is spontaneous at 298 K under standard conditions by checking the sign of ΔG°. If ΔG° is negative, the reaction is spontaneous; if positive, it is non-spontaneous.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Gibbs Free Energy (ΔG°)

Gibbs Free Energy (ΔG°) is a thermodynamic potential that measures the maximum reversible work obtainable from a thermodynamic process at constant temperature and pressure. It is a crucial indicator of spontaneity; if ΔG° is negative, the reaction is spontaneous under standard conditions, while a positive ΔG° indicates non-spontaneity.
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Standard Conditions

Standard conditions refer to a set of specific conditions used to measure and compare thermodynamic properties, typically defined as 1 bar of pressure and a specified temperature, usually 298 K (25°C). These conditions allow for consistent calculations of thermodynamic values, such as ΔG°, across different reactions.
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Reaction Quotient (Q) and Equilibrium Constant (K)

The reaction quotient (Q) is a measure of the relative concentrations of products and reactants at any point in a reaction, while the equilibrium constant (K) is the value of Q at equilibrium. Comparing Q to K helps determine the direction of the reaction and its spontaneity; if Q < K, the reaction proceeds forward, indicating spontaneity.
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