Enthalpy Variation in Exothermic Reactions

THE enthalpy (H) it can be defined as the energy content of each material or as the overall energy of a system. However, it is not possible, in practice, to determine the enthalpy of a substance. So, what is usually measured is the enthalpy variation enthalpy variation

Definition of enthalpy variation.

We will analyze here the variation of enthalpy in exothermic reactions (the word “exo” comes from the Greek and means “out, out of, out”), which are those reactions in which there is heat release. In everyday life, there are many examples of these reactions, such as combustion and the mixture of quicklime with water.

In these cases, the enthalpy variation enthalpy variation will be exactly the amount of heat released, given by the value of the final enthalpy minus the initial enthalpy (Hf - Hi) or, as it is a reaction, the enthalpy value of the products minus that of the reactants (HP - HR).

As heat is released, energy is lost. Thus, the total energy of the system decreases, so that the enthalpy of the products will always be lower than the of the reagents, so the enthalpy variation in exothermic reactions will always be negative, less than zero Enthalpy variation less than zero

Considering a generic exothermic reaction:

A → B + heat

This can be expressed using an enthalpy diagram like the one below:

Schematic of an enthalpy diagram in exothermic reactions.

The combustion of hydrogen gas, with the formation of liquid water, takes place with the release of energy. The value of the enthalpy variation of the system in this reaction is given by:

2h2(g) + O2(g) → 2H2O(1)enthalpy variation = - 572 kJ

Your diagram would be represented as follows:

Schematic of an enthalpy diagram of hydrogen combustion, an exothermic reaction


By Jennifer Fogaça
Graduated in Chemistry

Source: Brazil School - https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/quimica/variacao-entalpia-reacoes-exotermicas.htm

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