Which of the following processes are spontaneous and which are nonspontaneous: (d) lightning

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Understand the concept of spontaneity: A spontaneous process occurs without any external intervention, driven by a decrease in free energy (Gibbs free energy, \( \Delta G < 0 \)).

Consider the nature of lightning: Lightning is a natural electrical discharge that occurs in the atmosphere, typically during a thunderstorm.

Analyze the conditions for lightning: It occurs when there is a significant build-up of electrical charge in clouds, leading to a potential difference that exceeds the insulating capacity of the air.

Evaluate the spontaneity: Since lightning occurs naturally and without external intervention once the conditions are met, it is considered a spontaneous process.

Conclude: Lightning is a spontaneous process because it happens naturally under the right atmospheric conditions without any external force.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Spontaneity in Chemical Processes

Spontaneity refers to the natural tendency of a process to occur without external intervention. A spontaneous process is one that can proceed in a given direction under specified conditions, often associated with a decrease in free energy. Understanding spontaneity is crucial for predicting whether a reaction or physical change will happen on its own.

Thermodynamics and Free Energy

Thermodynamics is the study of energy transformations, and free energy (Gibbs free energy) is a key concept that helps determine spontaneity. A process is spontaneous if it results in a decrease in free energy (ΔG < 0). This principle allows chemists to assess whether a reaction will occur under certain conditions based on energy changes.

Examples of Spontaneous Processes

Spontaneous processes can include both chemical reactions and physical changes, such as the formation of lightning. Lightning occurs spontaneously due to the buildup of electrical charges in clouds, which eventually discharge when the potential difference is sufficient. Recognizing real-world examples helps illustrate the concept of spontaneity in various contexts.

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Textbook Question

Consider a reaction A₂(𝑔) + B₂(𝑔) ⇌ 2 AB(𝑔), atoms of A shown in red in the diagram and atoms of B shown in blue. (b) If 𝐾_𝑐= 1, which box represents the system at 𝑄 < 𝐾_𝑐?

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Textbook Question

Which of the following processes are spontaneous and which are nonspontaneous: (a) the ripening of a banana

Textbook Question

Which of the following processes are spontaneous and which are nonspontaneous: (e) formation of CH₄ and O₂ molecules from CO₂ and H₂O at room temperature and 1 atm of pressure?

Textbook Question

Which of the following processes are spontaneous?

a. the melting of ice cubes at −10 °C and 1 atm pressure

b. separating a mixture of N₂ and O₂ into two separate samples, one that is pure N₂ and one that is pure O₂

c. alignment of iron filings in a magnetic field

d. the reaction of hydrogen gas with oxygen gas to form water vapor at room temperature

e. the dissolution of HCl(g) in water to form concentrated hydrochloric acid

Textbook Question

Indicate whether each statement is true or false. (a) A reaction that is spontaneous in one direction will be nonspontaneous in the reverse direction under the same reaction conditions. (b) All spontaneous processes are fast. (c) Most spontaneous processes are reversible. (d) An isothermal process is one in which the system loses no heat. (e) The maximum amount of work can be accomplished by an irreversible process rather than a reversible one.