The purpose of this module is to investigate factors that initiate and drive a chemical reaction. You will examine the relationship between enthalpy and entropy in calculating the Gibbs free energy. You will also examine the roles that enthalpy and entropy play in the spontaneity of reactions.
You will be provided with opportunities to understand that all chemical reactions involve the creation of new substances and associated energy transformations, which are commonly observable as changes in temperature of the surrounding environment and/or emission of light.
You will conduct investigations to measure the heat energy changes that occur in chemical reactions. You will describe reactions using terms such as endothermic and exothermic, and explain reactions in terms of the law of conservation of energy. You will use Hess’s Law to calculate enthalpy changes involved in the breaking and making of bonds.
There are three main areas of content addressed through the following questions:
MDQ1) What energy changes occur in chemical reactions? Enthalpy changes in chemical reactions
MDQ2) How much energy does it take to break bonds, and how much is released when bonds are formed? Enthalpy and Hess’ Law
MDQ3) How can enthalpy and entropy be used to explain reaction spontaneity? Entropy and Gibbs Free Energy
SYLLABUS OUTCOMES
11-11 analyses the energy considerations in the driving force for chemical reactions
11/12-1 develops and evaluates questions and hypotheses for scientific investigation
11/12-53 analyses and evaluates primary and secondary data and information
11/12-6 solves scientific problems using primary and secondary data, critical thinking skills and scientific processes [LOC2]
11/12-7 communicates scientific understanding using suitable language and terminology for a specific audience or purpose [LOC4]