Final Answer:
a. The second law implies that the entropy of an isolated system never decreases is True
b. Molar heat capacity of a metal oxide is greater than that of the metal is True
c. For a reversible phase transformation, ΔH tr =T tr ΔS tr is True
d. In an endothermic reaction, the enthalpy of the products is always higher than that of the reactants is False
e. Increase in stability is associated with a decrease in the 'free energy' (or increase in entropy) of the system is True
Step-by-step explanation:
a. The second law implies that the entropy of an isolated system never decreases.
True: This statement aligns with the second law of thermodynamics, which states that the entropy of an isolated system tends to increase over time, and it never decreases. It reflects the natural tendency of systems to move towards greater disorder.
b. Molar heat capacity of a metal oxide is greater than that of the metal.
True: Generally, the molar heat capacity of a compound (like a metal oxide) is greater than that of the pure element (metal). This is due to the additional degrees of freedom associated with the compound.
c. For a reversible phase transformation, ΔH tr =T tr ΔS tr .
True: This equation represents the Gibbs-Helmholtz equation, which holds true for a reversible phase transformation at constant temperature. It relates the enthalpy change (ΔH) to the temperature (T) and the entropy change (ΔS).
d. In an endothermic reaction, the enthalpy of the products is always higher than that of the reactants.
False: In an endothermic reaction, the enthalpy of the products is generally higher than that of the reactants, but it is not always the case. It depends on the specific reaction and the amount of energy absorbed.
e. Increase in stability is associated with a decrease in the 'free energy' (or increase in entropy) of the system.
True: An increase in stability is often associated with a decrease in free energy or an increase in entropy. This reflects the tendency of systems to move towards states of lower energy or greater disorder, increasing their stability.