thermodynamics

THERMODYNAMICS FLASHCARDS

1.

Q: What is the First Law of Thermodynamics?

A: Energy cannot be created or destroyed. \Delta U = q + w

2.

Q: What does q represent in thermodynamics?

A: Heat transferred into or out of the system.

3.

Q: What does w represent in thermodynamics?

A: Work done on or by the system.

4.

Q: What is enthalpy (H)?

A: Heat content at constant pressure: H = U + PV

5.

Q: What is entropy (S)?

A: A measure of disorder or randomness.

6.

Q: What is the Second Law of Thermodynamics?

A: The total entropy of the universe always increases for a spontaneous process.

7.

Q: What is Gibbs Free Energy?

A: G = H - TS, determines spontaneity.

8.

Q: What does \Delta G < 0 mean?

A: The reaction is spontaneous.

9.

Q: What does \Delta G = 0 mean?

A: The system is at equilibrium.

10.

Q: What is the formula for heat transfer with no phase change?

A: q = mc\Delta T

11.

Q: What is Hess’s Law?

A: The total enthalpy change of a reaction is the sum of the changes for individual steps.

12.

Q: What’s the sign of \Delta H in an exothermic reaction?

A: Negative.

13.

Q: What is the unit of entropy (S)?

A: J/mol·K

14.

Q: What does a positive \Delta S mean?

A: Increased disorder.

15.

Q: At what point is a phase change occurring?

A: When temperature remains constant while heat is added or removed.