1. Entropy changes are important in determining the feasibility of a process.

a. For each of the four processes below, predict the likely sign of the entropy change of the
system, ∆Ssystem. In each case, justify your answer. [4]
(i) N2(g) + 3H2(g)  2NH3 (g)
(ii) H2O(s)  H2O(l)
(iii) 2 Na(s) + O2(g)  Na2O2(s)
(iv) S(s) + O2(g)  2SO2(g)

b. Magnesium oxide is used as a refractory lining for furnances. It can be made by heating
magnesium carbonate.
MgCO3(s)  MgO(s) + CO2(g) ∆H0 = +117 kJ mol_1
The table shows the standard entropies at 298 K of MgCO 3(s), MgO(s) and CO2(g)

Substance MgCO3(s) MgO(s) CO2(g)

0 -1 -1
S /JK mol 65.7 27.0 214.0
(i) Use the data to show that magnesium carbonate is stable at 298K [4]
(ii) Calculate the minimum temperature at which magnesium carbonate will
decompose. [2]

2. The equation for the combustion of hydrogen is :

H2(g) + ½ O2(g)  H2O (l) ∆H0 = - 285.5 kJ mol_1
The table gives the standard entropies at 298 K of H 2(g), O2(g) and H2O (g)

Substance H2(g) O2 (s) H2O (g)

S0/JK-1mol-1 131.0 205.0 69.9
a. Calculate the standard entropy change of the system at 298 K, ∆Ssystem ,for combustion of
hydrogen (g).
b. Calculate the standard entropy change of the surrounding at 298 K, ∆Ssurrounding ,for
combustion of hydrogen (g).
c. Calculate the total standard entropy change of the system at 298 K, ∆Stotal ,for combustion of
1 mol of hydrogen (g).
Give your answer to an appropriate number significant figures.
d. Explain why hydrogen does not react with oxygen unless the mixture is ignited.
3. Ammonia can be made by reacting together nitrogen and hydrogen. The reaction is reversible.