All Flashcards
Differentiate between a system and surroundings.
System: Where the reaction/process is happening. | Surroundings: Everything outside the system.
What are the key differences between galvanic and electrolytic cells?
Galvanic: Spontaneous, generates electricity. | Electrolytic: Non-spontaneous, requires electricity.
Compare high and low entropy.
High Entropy: More disorder (e.g., gas > liquid > solid). | Low Entropy: More order.
What is the effect of ΔG° < 0 on a reaction?
The reaction is spontaneous (thermodynamically favorable).
What is the effect of ΔG° > 0 on a reaction?
The reaction is nonspontaneous (thermodynamically unfavorable).
What is the effect of ΔG° = 0 on a reaction?
The reaction is at equilibrium.
What is the effect of a positive ΔS on a reaction?
The entropy of the system increases.
What is the effect of a negative ΔS on a reaction?
The entropy of the system decreases.
Define thermodynamics.
The study of energy and spontaneity of processes.
What is entropy (S°)?
A measure of disorder or randomness in a system.
Define Gibbs Free Energy (ΔG°).
A measure of spontaneity, combining enthalpy and entropy.
What is a spontaneous process?
A process that occurs without continuous external intervention.
Define enthalpy (ΔH).
The heat content of a system at constant pressure.
Define a galvanic cell.
A cell that uses a spontaneous redox reaction to generate electricity.
Define an electrolytic cell.
A cell that uses electricity to drive a non-spontaneous redox reaction.