Thermochemistry

Thermochemistry is the study of the relationships between chemical

reactions and energy changes. Let's explore the fascinating world of
thermodynamics!
Definition of
Thermochemistry
Thermochemistry focuses on the quantitative study of heat and energy flow
in chemical reactions. It helps us understand how energy is transferred
between systems and the surroundings.
Enthalpy and Heat Transfer
1 Enthalpy Change 2 Exothermic &
Enthalpy (H) represents
the heat content of a
system. It changes during
chemical reactions due to
heat transfer, affecting
the reaction's direction.
3 Specific Heat
Endothermic
In exothermic reactions,
heat is released from the
system to the
surroundings. In
endothermic reactions,
heat is absorbed from the
surroundings into the
system.
Capacity
Specific heat capacity
measures how much heat
energy is required to raise
the temperature of a
substance by a certain
amount.
Different Types of Thermochemical
Reactions

Combustion Endothermic Exothermic

Combustion reactions involve the Endothermic reactions absorb Exothermic reactions release heat
rapid reaction of a substance with heat from the surroundings, to the surroundings, causing an
oxygen to release heat and resulting in a decrease in the increase in the system's
produce combustion products. system's temperature. temperature.
Hess's Law and Heat of Formation
Hess's Law

Hess's Law states that the enthalpy change of a reaction is independent of the pathway
taken, as long as the initial and final conditions remain the same.

Heat of Formation

The heat of formation is the enthalpy change when one mole of a substance is formed
from its constituent elements in their standard states.

Standard Enthalpy Change

The standard enthalpy change is the enthalpy change that occurs when reactants and
products are in their standard states.
Applications of Thermochemistry
Chemical Reactions

Thermochemistry helps us understand the energy change involved in chemical reactions, which is crucial for
designing efficient and cost-effective processes.

Calorimetry

Calorimetry methods allow us to measure the heat exchanged between reactants and the surroundings,
enabling accurate enthalpy determinations.

Energy Conversion

Thermochemistry plays a vital role in energy conversion processes, including power generation, fuel cells,
and energy storage systems.
Factors Affecting the Enthalpy Change
Concentration & Pressure
Changing the concentration or pressure
of reactants can affect the enthalpy
change by altering the degree of
collision and reactant availability.
1 Temperature Changes
Higher temperature increases the kinetic
energy of particles, leading to greater
2 collision frequency and increased
enthalpy change.
3 Surface Area
A larger surface area exposes more
reactant particles to collisions, resulting
in increased enthalpy change.
Limitations and Considerations in
Thermochemistry
1 Ideal Conditions 2 Environmental
Thermochemical
calculations assume ideal
conditions, which may
differ from real-world
scenarios due to factors
like pressure,
temperature, and
concentration.
3 Heat Exchange
Impact Efficiency
Understanding the The efficiency of heat
environmental impact of transfer systems affects
thermodynamic processes the accuracy of measuring
is essential to develop enthalpy changes and
sustainable and eco- determining reaction
friendly solutions. outcomes.
Standard Reaction Enthalpy
Kirchhoff’s Law
Molar Heat Capacities