Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · Chemical energetics

Chemical energetics — practice question

The spontaneity (feasibility) of a chemical reaction is governed by the standard Gibbs free energy change, $\Delta G^{\circ}$. This is connected to the standard enthalpy and entropy changes by $\Delta G^{\circ} = \Delta H^{\circ} - T\Delta S^{\circ}$.
(a(i))[1]

State and explain whether the reaction of magnesium with hydrochloric acid will cause entropy to increase or decrease.

(a(ii))[1]

State and explain whether dissolving solid potassium chloride in water will cause entropy to increase or decrease.

(a(iii))[1]

State and explain whether steam condensing to water will cause entropy to increase or decrease.

(b(i))[3]

Magnesium carbonate decomposes according to $\text{MgCO}_3(s) \rightarrow \text{MgO}(s) + \text{CO}_2(g)$, $\Delta H^{\circ} = +117\,\text{kJ mol}^{-1}$. Standard entropies are: $S^{\circ}(\text{MgCO}_3) = +65.7\,\text{J mol}^{-1}\text{K}^{-1}$, $S^{\circ}(\text{MgO}) = +26.9\,\text{J mol}^{-1}\text{K}^{-1}$, $S^{\circ}(\text{CO}_2) = +214\,\text{J mol}^{-1}\text{K}^{-1}$. Calculate $\Delta G^{\circ}$ for this reaction at $298\,\text{K}$. State a suitable sign and give your answer to three significant figures.

(b(ii))[1]

Explain, using $\Delta G^{\circ}$, why this reaction is more feasible at higher temperatures.

(c)[2]

On heating, sodium hydrogencarbonate breaks down into sodium carbonate as shown: $2\text{NaHCO}_3(s) \rightarrow \text{Na}_2\text{CO}_3(s) + \text{CO}_2(g) + \text{H}_2\text{O}(g)$, $\Delta H^{\circ} = +130\,\text{kJ mol}^{-1}$, $\Delta S^{\circ} = +316\,\text{J mol}^{-1}\text{K}^{-1}$. Calculate the minimum temperature at which this reaction becomes spontaneous (feasible). Show your working.

(d)[2]

The solubility of Group 2 sulfates falls down the Group. Explain this trend.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Entropy increases / positive and $H_2$ gas is produced

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