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

Atoms, molecules and stoichiometry — practice question

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

State the statement of Hess’ Law.

(b(i))[1]

Construct a balanced equation for the reaction between potassium carbonate, $\text{K}_2\text{CO}_3$, and hydrochloric acid.

(b(ii))[2]

Calculate the heat released in experiment 1, and include your units. Use appropriate data from the Data Booklet and assume that all solutions have the same specific heat capacity as water.

(b(iii))[2]

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

(b(iv))[1]

Explain why the hydrochloric acid has to be in excess.

(c(i))[1]

Construct a balanced equation for the reaction carried out in experiment 2.

(c(ii))[2]

Calculate the amount of heat absorbed in experiment 2.

(c(iii))[2]

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

(d)[2]

When $\text{KHCO}_3$ is heated, it breaks down into $\text{K}_2\text{CO}_3$, $\text{CO}_2$ and $\text{H}_2\text{O}$. $2\text{KHCO}_3 \rightarrow \text{K}_2\text{CO}_3 + \text{CO}_2 + \text{H}_2\text{O}$. Use Hess’ Law together with your answers to (b)(iii) and (c)(iii) to work out the enthalpy change for this reaction. Give your answer in $\text{kJ mol}^{-1}$ and include a sign in your answer.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 15-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Definition of the overall enthalpy change, $\Delta H$, for a chemical reaction

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI