Purchase Solution

Solving for Delta G

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

Can you explain what we are doing mathematically, canceling, multiplying etc.? Thank-you.

I am trying to understand how to balance this equation.
We were given the following data to solve for delta G (standard).

S(s) + 3/2 O2(g)--------->SO3(g) delta G standard = -371kJ
2SO2(g)+ O2(g)--------->2SO3(g) delta G standard = -142kJ

Now calculate delta G standard for the reaction.

delta G standard = delta H standard - T delta S standard

Please explain in detail how to balance these two equations together and add. I do not understand where they are getting the 1/2 142 kJ0, and why on the second number we have no coefficient on -371 kJ then we end up with 71kJ - 371 kJ = -300? Could you please explain? Thank-you very much.
Can you explain what they are doing with the 1/2 mathematically? I see now that we are getting rid of the SO3, however how are we doing it? Are we canceling it out?

Purchase this Solution

Solution Summary

The solution provided goes through the steps and explains what each does and why.

Solution Preview

S(s) + 3/2 O2(g)--------->SO3(g) -371kJ
2SO2(g)+ O2(g)--------->2SO3(g) -142kJ

We need to switch around the second equation so that the SO3 cancels. When we do, we must reverse the sign of the deltaG.

Therefore, we write the following:

S(s) + 3/2 O2(g) --------->SO3(g) ...

Purchase this Solution


Free BrainMass Quizzes
Match Elements with their Symbols

Elements are provided: choose the matching one- or two-letter symbol for each element.

Organic Chemistry Naming: Alkanes

This is a quiz which is designed to assist students with learning the nomenclature used to identify organic compounds. This quiz focuses on the organic compounds called Alkanes.

Functional groups in Organic Chemistry

You will be tested on the names of functional groups in Organic Chemistry. It is very important to know the functional groups to understand Organic reactions.

General Chemistry - Classification of Matter

This test will assess your knowledge on the classification of matter which includes elements, compounds and mixtures.