Question

∆G° for a reaction is a large, negative number. The reaction also has a very large energy of activation. At standard conditions for this reaction, which statement is correct? (A) This is not a spontaneous reaction. (B) This is an explosive, exothermic reaction. (C) The reaction is spontaneous, but will occur slowly. (D) When the reactants are mixed the reaction will rapidly go to completion

Answer 1

(C) The reaction is spontaneous but will occur slowly.

Step-by-step explanation:

Spontaneity and speed are two characteristics that can help describe a reaction.

Spontaneity

Spontaneity determines whether or not a reaction will occur without external stimuli. Spontaneity depends on Gibbs Free Energy (∆G°). Gibbs Free Energy is the amount of energy available to do work in a system. This quantity combines enthalpy, entropy, and temperature into one value.

The more negative the ∆G°, the more spontaneous a reaction. The more positive the ∆G°, the less spontaneous. However, spontaneity does not necessarily relate to the rate of reaction.

Rate of Reaction

The rate of reaction is the speed at which a reaction occurs. The rate of reaction depends on the kinetics of a reaction, which is closely tied to the activation energy. The higher the activation energy of a reaction, the slower it will occur. Even if a reaction is spontaneous, if the activation energy is high, the reaction will be slow.