Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · Atoms, molecules and stoichiometry

Atoms, molecules and stoichiometry — practice question

For certain reactions, including the thermal decomposition of potassium hydrogencarbonate, KHCO$_3$, the enthalpy change of reaction cannot be determined directly. In these situations, Hess’ Law can be used to work out the enthalpy change of reaction from the enthalpy changes of other reactions.
(a)[2]

State Hess’ Law in words.

(b(i))[1]

Write the balanced equation for this reaction.

(b(ii))

Calculate the amount of heat given out in experiment 1, and include your units. Use the relevant Data Booklet data and assume that every solution has the same specific heat capacity as water.

(b(iii))

Use your answer to (ii) to find the enthalpy change per mole of K$_2$CO$_3$. Give your answer in kJ mol$^{-1}$ and include a sign in your response.

(b(iv))[4]

Explain why the hydrochloric acid has to be in excess.

(c(i))[1]

Write the balanced equation for this reaction.

(c(ii))

Calculate the amount of heat taken in during experiment 2.

(c(iii))[3]

Use your answer to (ii) to find the enthalpy change per mole of KHCO$_3$. Give your answer in kJ mol$^{-1}$ and include a sign in your response.

(d)[2]

On heating, KHCO$_3$ decomposes to give K$_2$CO$_3$, CO$_2$ and H$_2$O. $2\text{KHCO}_3 \rightarrow \text{K}_2\text{CO}_3 + \text{CO}_2 + \text{H}_2\text{O}$. Apply Hess’ Law together with your answers to (b)(iii) and (c)(iii) to determine the enthalpy change for this reaction. Give your answer in kJ mol$^{-1}$ and include a sign in your response.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 13-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Defines enthalpy change as the total energy change for a reaction

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