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What does the magnitude of a hydration enthalpy depend on?

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Final answer:

Hydration enthalpy is influenced by the charge density and charge of ions, physical states of reactants and products, and the direction of the reaction. Entropy, being an extensive property, also affects the enthalpy change magnitude which is standardized at 1 bar pressure and 298.15 K.

Step-by-step explanation:

The magnitude of hydration enthalpy depends on several factors. Attraction between ions and water molecules is crucial in this process, known as hydration when dealing with water. Key determinants include:

  • The charge density of the ion, which is the charge over volume. A higher charge density means stronger attraction to water molecules and a larger hydration enthalpy.
  • The charge on the ion itself, with higher charges generally leading to more significant energy release upon hydration.
  • The physical states of reactants and products (solid, liquid, gas) because different states involve different interaction strengths and energy changes.

Additionally, the direction of the reaction (endothermic or exothermic) can affect the sign of the enthalpy change, though not the magnitude. Standard enthalpies of formation are measured under specific conditions to provide uniformity, with the standard state of 1 bar pressure and 298.15 K. Ion-dipole interactions play a significant role, as do the extensive property characteristics of enthalpy.

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