Why is ΔH°rxn -1172 kJ for This Reaction?

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In summary, to calculate the ΔH°rxn for the given reaction, we use the equation ΔH°rxn=ΔH°products-ΔH°reactants, where ΔH°f of O2 is defined to be zero. Therefore, the answer is -1172 kJ. The given values for the enthalpy of formation for NO2 and HNO3 are not relevant for this specific problem and may have been included by mistake.
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Drakkith
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Homework Statement



Given the data in the table below, ΔH°rxn for the reaction

4NH3 (g) + 5O2 (g) → 4NO (g) + 6H2O (l)

is ________ kJ.

Substance ΔH∘f(kJ/mol)
H2O (l) -286
NO (g) 90
NO2 (g) 34
HNO3 (aq) -207
NH3 (g) -46

Homework Equations



ΔH°rxn = ΔH°products - ΔH°reactants

The Attempt at a Solution



ΔH°rxn = [(4x90)+(6x-286)] - [(4x-46)+(X)]

ΔH°rxn = (-1356) - (-184+X)

ΔH°rxn = -1356 + 184 - X

ΔH°rxn = -1172 + X

At first I selected, D.) The ΔH°f of O2 (g) is needed for the calculation.
However, apparently the answer is -1172, but I have no idea why. How can -1172 be the answer here? And why do they give me the enthalpy of formation for NO2 and HNO3 if neither of those compounds are in my reaction?
 
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  • #2
Okay, I just realized the ΔH°f of O2 is defined to be zero...
Now it all makes sense.
 
  • #3
Drakkith said:
I just realized the ΔH°f of O2 is defined to be zero...

And you answer - that it is needed - wasn't wrong in general. Defining ΔH°f of O2 as zero means you know its value ;)
 
  • #4
Drakkith said:
And why do they give me the enthalpy of formation for NO2 and HNO3 if neither of those compounds are in my reaction?
why?
 
  • #5
Either to confuse him, or because it was copy/pasted from another problem and someone didn't bother to leave just what is important for the question.
 

FAQ: Why is ΔH°rxn -1172 kJ for This Reaction?

1. What is ΔH°rxn for a reaction?

ΔH°rxn, also known as the standard enthalpy change of reaction, is the amount of heat released or absorbed during a chemical reaction under standard conditions (25°C and 1 atm).

2. How do you calculate ΔH°rxn for a reaction?

To calculate ΔH°rxn, you need to know the enthalpy of the products and reactants. The equation is ΔH°rxn = ΣH°products - ΣH°reactants, where ΣH° represents the sum of the standard enthalpies of the substances involved.

3. What are the units for ΔH°rxn?

The units for ΔH°rxn are kilojoules per mole (kJ/mol).

4. How do you determine the sign of ΔH°rxn?

If ΔH°rxn is negative, it means that the reaction is exothermic, releasing heat into the surroundings. If ΔH°rxn is positive, it means that the reaction is endothermic, absorbing heat from the surroundings.

5. Why is it important to calculate ΔH°rxn for a reaction?

Calculating ΔH°rxn helps us understand the energy changes that occur during a chemical reaction. It is also important in industries such as pharmaceuticals and energy production, as it can help predict the energy requirements and efficiency of a reaction.

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