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Ch.19 - Electrochemistry
Chapter 19, Problem 122a

Calculate ∆Gr°xn and K for each reaction. a. The reaction of Cr2+(aq) with Cr2O7^2-(aq) in acid solution to form Cr3+(aq).

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Key Concepts

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

Gibbs Free Energy (∆G)

Gibbs Free Energy (∆G) is a thermodynamic potential that measures the maximum reversible work obtainable from a thermodynamic system at constant temperature and pressure. The change in Gibbs Free Energy (∆Gr°xn) for a reaction indicates whether the reaction is spontaneous (negative ∆G) or non-spontaneous (positive ∆G). It is calculated using the standard free energies of formation of the reactants and products.
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Equilibrium Constant (K)

The equilibrium constant (K) is a dimensionless value that expresses the ratio of the concentrations of products to reactants at equilibrium for a given reaction at a specific temperature. It is related to the Gibbs Free Energy change by the equation ∆Gr° = -RT ln(K), where R is the universal gas constant and T is the temperature in Kelvin. A larger K value indicates a greater tendency for the reaction to favor products.
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Redox Reactions

Redox reactions involve the transfer of electrons between species, resulting in changes in oxidation states. In the given reaction, Cr2+(aq) is oxidized to Cr3+(aq) while Cr2O7^2-(aq) is reduced. Understanding the half-reactions and the roles of oxidizing and reducing agents is crucial for calculating ∆Gr°xn and K, as these values depend on the electron transfer processes occurring in the reaction.
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