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Chemistry Question 129 – AP-EAMCET 2026

At 17C, the enthalpy change and entropy change of the reaction given below are respectively 12.55 kJ mol1 and 5.0 JK1 Zn(s)+2HCl(aq)ZnCl2(aq)+H2(g) What is ΔG (in kJ mol1) for this reaction?

The change in Gibbs free energy (ΔG) determines the spontaneity of a chemical reaction at constant temperature and pressure.

Step 1: Identify Given Values and Equation✦ Active

The problem provides the enthalpy change (ΔH), entropy change (ΔS), and temperature (T) for a reaction. We need to calculate the Gibbs free energy change (ΔG). The relevant equation is the Gibbs-Helmholtz equation:

ΔG=ΔHTΔS

Given values are: ΔH=12.55 kJ mol1 ΔS=5.0 JK1 T=17C

💡 Teacher's Secret Hint

Always list out the given quantities and the target variable before starting calculations. This helps in identifying necessary formulas and unit conversions.

Step 2: Convert Units to Ensure Consistency○ Expand

For the Gibbs-Helmholtz equation, temperature must be in Kelvin, and the units of ΔH and TΔS must be consistent. Since ΔH is in kJ, ΔS should also be converted to kJ K1.

Convert temperature from Celsius to Kelvin:

T(K)=T(C)+273.15

T=17+273.15=290.15 K

Convert entropy change from J K1 to kJ K1:

ΔS=5.0 JK1×1 kJ1000 J=0.0050 kJ K1
💡 Teacher's Secret Hint

A common error is forgetting to convert temperature to Kelvin or ensuring that the energy units (Joules vs. kiloJoules) are consistent across all terms.

Step 3: Calculate Gibbs Free Energy Change○ Expand

Now, substitute the converted values into the Gibbs-Helmholtz equation:

ΔG=ΔHTΔS

Substitute the values:

ΔG=12.55 kJ mol1(290.15 K)(0.0050 kJ K1 mol1)

Perform the multiplication:

TΔS=290.15×0.0050=1.45075 kJ mol1

Complete the subtraction:

ΔG=12.551.45075=14.00075 kJ mol1

Rounding to two decimal places, or matching the options provided, ΔG14.00 kJ mol1.

💡 Teacher's Secret Hint

Pay close attention to the sign convention. A negative ΔG indicates a spontaneous reaction under the given conditions.

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