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 system at constant temperature and pressure. A negative ΔG° indicates that a reaction is spontaneous, while a positive ΔG° suggests non-spontaneity. Understanding ΔG° is crucial for predicting the favorability of chemical reactions.
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Standard Reaction Gibbs Free Energy (ΔG°rxn)
Standard Reaction Gibbs Free Energy (ΔG°rxn) refers to the change in Gibbs Free Energy for a reaction under standard conditions (1 bar pressure, 298 K temperature). It is calculated using the Gibbs Free Energy values of the reactants and products. This concept is essential for determining the spontaneity and equilibrium of reactions, as seen in the provided reactions.
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Hess's Law
Hess's Law states that the total enthalpy change for a reaction is the sum of the enthalpy changes for the individual steps, regardless of the pathway taken. This principle can be applied to Gibbs Free Energy calculations, allowing us to combine known ΔG°rxn values from multiple reactions to find the ΔG° for a target reaction. It is a powerful tool in thermodynamics for deriving reaction energetics.
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