#Thermodynamic Favorability: Is It Going to Happen? 🤔

Hey, future AP Chem master! Let's dive into thermodynamic favorability, which is all about predicting whether a reaction will occur spontaneously. Think of it like this: is the reaction naturally inclined to happen, or does it need a push? Let's find out!

This topic is crucial for understanding reaction spontaneity and equilibrium, which are major themes in AP Chemistry. Expect to see these concepts in both multiple-choice and free-response questions.

#Explaining Thermodynamic Favorability

Thermodynamic favorability helps us determine if a reaction is spontaneous (happens on its own) or nonspontaneous (needs external help). Spontaneous reactions are thermodynamically favorable, while non-spontaneous ones are thermodynamically unfavorable.

#Enthalpy (ΔH°) and Entropy (ΔS°): The Dynamic Duo

Two main factors determine spontaneity:

1. Enthalpy Change (ΔH°): This is the heat change in a reaction.

   • Exothermic (ΔH° < 0): System loses heat to surroundings. Think of it as 'heat exiting'. 🔥

   • Endothermic (ΔH° > 0): System gains heat from surroundings. Think of it as 'heat entering'. 🧊

*Caption: Visualizing exothermic and endothermic reactions. Exothermic reactions release heat, while endothermic reactions absorb it.*

2. Entropy Change (ΔS°): This is the change in disorder or randomness of a system. * Positive ΔS°: Disorder increases. More chaos! 🎉 * Negative ΔS°: Disorder decreases. More order. 😥