Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Chemistry (YCH11) - Unit 4 - 12.7 ΔS_system calculations-Study Notes - New Syllabus

Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Chemistry (YCH11) -Unit 4 – 12.7 ΔS_system calculations- Study Notes- New syllabus

Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Chemistry (YCH11) -Unit 4 – 12.7 ΔS_system calculations- Study Notes -International A Level (IAL) Chemistry (YCH11) – per latest Syllabus.

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Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Chemistry (YCH11) -Concise Summary Notes- All Topics

12.7 Calculation of Entropy Change of the System (\( \mathrm{\Delta S_{system}} \))

The entropy change of the system for a reaction can be calculated using standard entropy values of reactants and products. This allows the change in disorder during a reaction to be quantified and used to predict feasibility when combined with other factors.

Entropy Change of the System

\( \mathrm{\Delta S_{system} = \sum S^\circ (products) – \sum S^\circ (reactants)} \)

Where:

  • \( \mathrm{S^\circ} \) = standard entropy value (usually in \( \mathrm{J\ mol^{-1}K^{-1}} \))
  • Values must be multiplied by their respective stoichiometric coefficients.

Method

  • Write the balanced chemical equation.
  • Identify the \( \mathrm{S^\circ} \) values for all reactants and products.
  • Multiply each value by its coefficient in the equation.
  • Sum the entropy values for products.
  • Sum the entropy values for reactants.
  • Subtract: products − reactants.

Interpretation

  • \( \mathrm{\Delta S_{system} > 0} \): increase in disorder (more randomness).
  • \( \mathrm{\Delta S_{system} < 0} \): decrease in disorder (more order).
  • Often linked to changes in state or number of gas molecules.

Key Considerations

  • Ensure all entropy values are in consistent units.
  • Include physical states (s, l, g, aq) as they affect entropy values.
  • Pay attention to coefficients in balanced equations.

Example 1:

Calculate \( \mathrm{\Delta S_{system}} \) for the reaction:

\( \mathrm{2SO_2(g) + O_2(g) \rightarrow 2SO_3(g)} \)

Given: \( \mathrm{S^\circ(SO_2) = 248,\ S^\circ(O_2) = 205,\ S^\circ(SO_3) = 257\ J\ mol^{-1}K^{-1}} \)

▶️ Answer/Explanation

Sum of products: \( \mathrm{2 \times 257 = 514} \)

Sum of reactants: \( \mathrm{(2 \times 248) + 205 = 496 + 205 = 701} \)

\( \mathrm{\Delta S_{system} = 514 – 701 = -187\ J\ mol^{-1}K^{-1}} \)

The negative value indicates a decrease in disorder, consistent with a reduction in moles of gas.

Example 2:

Calculate \( \mathrm{\Delta S_{system}} \) for the reaction:

\( \mathrm{N_2O_4(g) \rightarrow 2NO_2(g)} \)

Given: \( \mathrm{S^\circ(N_2O_4) = 304,\ S^\circ(NO_2) = 240\ J\ mol^{-1}K^{-1}} \)

▶️ Answer/Explanation

Sum of products: \( \mathrm{2 \times 240 = 480} \)

Sum of reactants: \( \mathrm{304} \)

\( \mathrm{\Delta S_{system} = 480 – 304 = +176\ J\ mol^{-1}K^{-1}} \)

The positive value indicates an increase in disorder due to an increase in the number of gas molecules.

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