Chapter 5: Problem 64
The \(\Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ}\) values of the two allotropes of oxygen, \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\) and \(\mathrm{O}_{3}\), are 0 and \(142.2 \mathrm{~kJ} / \mathrm{mol}\), respectively, at \(25^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\). Which is the more stable form at this temperature?
Short Answer
Expert verified
O2 is more stable than O3 at 25°C.
Step by step solution
01
Understanding the Exercise
The exercise asks us to determine which allotrope of oxygen, O2 or O3, is more stable at a given temperature based on their standard enthalpies of formation, \( \Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ} \). O2 has a value of 0, and O3 has a value of 142.2 kJ/mol.
02
Concept of Stability and Enthalpy
In thermodynamics, lower enthalpy values indicate more stable substances. Since \( \Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ} \) measures the energy change when one mole of a compound is formed from its elements, a higher positive value suggests less stability, since the compound is in a higher energy state.
03
Comparing Enthalpy Values
We compare the given enthalpy values of O2 and O3: \( \Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ}(O_2) = 0 \) and \( \Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ}(O_3) = 142.2 \text{ kJ/mol} \).O2 has a \( \Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ} \) of 0, indicating it is in its standard state and very stable.In contrast, O3 with \( \Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ} = 142.2 \text{ kJ/mol} \), indicates it is at a higher energy level, making it less stable.
04
Conclusion
Based on the \( \Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ} \) values, O2 is more stable than O3 at 25°C. This is because O2 is in its elemental form with no energy required for its formation, unlike O3, which requires energy input, thus being less stable.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Enthalpy
Enthalpy (\(H\)) is a fundamental concept in thermodynamics used to quantify the heat content in a system at constant pressure. Understanding enthalpy helps us predict how substances behave during chemical reactions.
It is expressed in units like kilojoules per mole (kJ/mol), which lets us measure the energy changes during transitions or reactions.
In the context of chemical reactions:
It is expressed in units like kilojoules per mole (kJ/mol), which lets us measure the energy changes during transitions or reactions.
In the context of chemical reactions:
- If the enthalpy change (\(\Delta H\)) is negative, the reaction releases energy, indicating an exothermic process.
- Conversely, a positive \(\Delta H\) value means the reaction absorbs energy, pointing to an endothermic process.
Stability
Stability in thermodynamics pertains to how likely a substance is to undergo a chemical change. A stable chemical species tends to remain as it is and does not spontaneously convert or react.
Looking at the standard enthalpy of formation can provide insights into a substance's energy stability.
Substances with lower enthalpy values are generally more stable, as they're already in a lower energy state.
Looking at the standard enthalpy of formation can provide insights into a substance's energy stability.
Substances with lower enthalpy values are generally more stable, as they're already in a lower energy state.
- For example, oxygen exists as \(O_2\) in our environment, with a standard enthalpy of formation (\(\Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ}\)) of 0, indicating it's very stable.
- In contrast, ozone (\(O_3\)) has a \(\Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ}\) value of 142.2 kJ/mol, suggesting it's less stable. This is due to its higher energy state, making it more reactive.
Oxygen Allotropes
Oxygen can exist in different forms called allotropes, with \(O_2\) and \(O_3\) being the most commonly discussed. Each allotropic form has distinct properties and implications in chemical reactions.
Oxygen (\(O_2\)) is the familiar diatomic molecule vital for respiration and combustion processes.
It's characterized by stable bonds and an availability in nature, contributing to our breathable air.
Oxygen (\(O_2\)) is the familiar diatomic molecule vital for respiration and combustion processes.
It's characterized by stable bonds and an availability in nature, contributing to our breathable air.
- The molecule \(O_3\), or ozone, is a triatomic form, known for its protective role in the Earth's stratosphere, where it absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
- Unlike \(O_2\), ozone is less stable and more reactive, often used for oxidative and disinfectant purposes.
Standard Enthalpy of Formation
The standard enthalpy of formation (\(\Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ}\)) measures the energy change when one mole of a compound is formed from its elements at standard conditions (usually 25°C and 1 atm pressure). This thermodynamic quantity is crucial for understanding chemical processes.
It serves as a benchmark for predicting the stability and reactivity of substances.
Whereas the \(\Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ}\) of \(O_3\) as 142.2 kJ/mol reveals the energy required to form it, explaining its less stable nature compared to \(O_2\).
It serves as a benchmark for predicting the stability and reactivity of substances.
- A \(\Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ}\) of zero indicates a substance is in its elemental form, revealing no energy change is needed for its formation.
- Non-zero values suggest the energy required or released, pinpointing the relative position of the compound concerning its elements.
Whereas the \(\Delta H_{\mathrm{f}}^{\circ}\) of \(O_3\) as 142.2 kJ/mol reveals the energy required to form it, explaining its less stable nature compared to \(O_2\).