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Question #44239
The Question
Consider the following sequential reactions for the synthesis of a solid material from gaseous precursors and :
Step 1: Step 2:
The standard thermodynamic parameters ( in , in ) at are given as follows: (, ); (, ); (, ); (, ).
Assuming these values are independent of temperature, identify the crossover temperature () for the overall net reaction, and the value of the net standard Gibbs free energy change () at .
Options
- A.
,
- B.
,
- C.
,
- D.
,
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Mechanism_Trap
Don't get tricked by the process! Learn the mechanical traps used in competitive exam questions.
Concepts Behind This Question
Spontaneity Criteria|Enthalpy Definition|Standard State Conditions
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
This question tests the principles of Reaction Coupling and the Exothermic Fallacy (temperature-dependent spontaneity).
Students often fall into the trap of calculating the crossover temperature for only the first step (700 K) and incorrectly assume that because Step 1 is non-spontaneous at 750 K, the entire process is blocked.
The 'Hidden Variable' here is thermodynamic coupling: a highly exergonic subsequent step can drive an endergonic intermediate step forward, provided the net Gibbs free energy is negative.
Furthermore, it forces students to recognize that despite a highly exothermic enthalpy, the massive entropy decrease makes spontaneity strictly temperature-dependent, violating the heuristic that exothermic reactions are always spontaneous.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Chemistry |
| Chapter | Thermodynamics - Class 11 Part 1 |
| Concept | Spontaneity Criteria |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 7 |
| Target Solve Time | 160 sec |
| Access | Free |