Final answer:
When the equilibrium constant K'eq is equal to 1, the Delta G naught prime (ΔG⁰') is zero, indicating that the system is at equilibrium with no net reaction favored.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Delta G naught prime when K'eq = 1
Delta G naught prime (ΔG⁰') is a thermodynamic quantity that indicates the change in Gibbs free energy for a reaction. When the equilibrium constant (K'eq) is equal to 1, it signifies that the reaction is at equilibrium, with no net change in the concentration of reactants and products. Consequently, ΔG⁰' is equal to zero under these conditions.
The relationship between ΔG⁰', the equilibrium constant, and the reaction's directionality is fundamental in chemical thermodynamics. If ΔG⁰' is less than zero, the reaction is spontaneous in the forward direction, and K'eq is greater than 1. Conversely, if ΔG⁰' is greater than zero, the reaction is spontaneous in the reverse direction, and K'eq is less than 1. The scenario where K'eq equals 1 corresponds to a balanced equilibrium state where no net reaction is favored, and thus ΔG⁰' is zero, indicating a neither exergonic nor endergonic process.
The significance of a ΔG⁰' value of zero is that it reflects a system at equilibrium where the forward and reverse reactions occur at the same rate. This concept is central to understanding how temperature and other factors can influence the position of equilibrium and the equilibrium constants for reactions at different temperatures.