INORGANIC

THERMODYNAMICS
Inorganic Thermodynamics, Introduction
Descriptive inorganic chemistry is not simply a study of the
chemical elements and the myriad compounds that they
form. It also involves the need to explain why some
compounds form and others do not. The explanation
usually relates to the energy factors involved in the
formation of compounds. This topic is a branch of
thermodynamics, and in this chapter we present a simplifi
ed introduction to inorganic thermodynamics.
Thermodynamics of the Formation of
Compounds
• Enthalpy of Formation
• Bond Energies (Enthalpies)

• Lattice Energies (Enthalpies)

• Enthalpies of Atomization
Lattice Energies (Enthalpies)
• The lattice energy is the energy change for the formation of 1
mol of an ionic solid from its constituent gaseous ions (we are
really considering lattice enthalpy here, but the difference is
negligible).
• Each type of lattice has a different arrangement of cations and
anions and hence its own converging series. The numerical
values for these series are known as Madelung constants,
Lattice Energies (Enthalpies)
• In addition to a dependence on lattice type, lattice energy
varies considerably with ion charge. Doubling the charge
from 11 to 12 (or –1 to –2) approximately triples the lattice
energy.
• For example, the lattice energy of potassium chloride is
701 kJ.mol–1, whereas that of calcium chloride is 2237
kJ.mol–1.
• In fact, for the series MX, MX2, MX3, MX4, the lattice
energies are related in the ratios of 1:3:6:10.
• The lattice energy is also greater if the ions are smaller, a
factor that results in closer ion centers.
Formation of Ionic Compounds
Born-Haber cycle
Thermodynamics of the Solution Process
for Ionic Compounds

• Lattice Energy
• Energy of Hydration
• Energy Change of the
Solution Process
Formation of Covalent Compounds