Laws of Thermodynamics - Vocabulary

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and definitions related to the laws of thermodynamics.

Zeroth Law of Thermodynamics

The system and surroundings want to reach equilibrium.

First Law of Thermodynamics

Energy cannot be created nor destroyed.

Second Law of Thermodynamics

In a spontaneous process, the entropy of the universe increases.

Third Law of Thermodynamics

The entropy of a substance is zero at absolute zero (only one microstate).

Free Energy (ΔG)

Equals Enthalpy (ΔH) - Temperature (T) * Entropy (ΔS). Indicates spontaneity of a reaction.

Exothermic Reaction

A reaction with a negative ΔH, releases energy, and forms bonds.

Endothermic Reaction

A reaction with a positive ΔH, requires energy to occur, and breaks bonds.

Spontaneous Reaction

A reaction with a negative ΔG.

Nonspontaneous Reaction

A reaction with a positive ΔG.

Ways to Increase Entropy (ΔS)

Increase number of molecules, Increase temperature, Increase molecular complexity, Increase state change (ex: liquid to gas), Increase volume, Increase molar mass

ΔG and ΔH at Equilibrium

Equal zero.

ΔS at Absolute Zero

Equals zero.