Concordia University, Dept of Chemistry & Biochemistry, General Chemistry II Winter 2024

CHEM 206 Tutorial 2 – Pre-Quiz Task

#1. A simple humidity sensor consists of a metal-ion impregnated cardboard square that is blue in dry weather
and red in humid weather. The colour change is due to the formation of a hydrated compound, which forms
because water molecules bind to a cobalt ion via coordinate covalent bonds:
CoCl2(s) + 6 H2O(g) [Co(H2O)6]Cl2(s) note: same as CoCl2 6H2O(s)
a) Briefly explain (using chemical logic, not quantitation) what causes the above reaction to be:
a. Exothermic (Hrxn = -352 kJmol-1 at 25C)

b. Entropically unfavourable (S = -899 Jmol-1K-1 at 25C)

b) Estimate (via calculation) the standard Gibbs free energy change for this reaction on a hot summer day
when the temperature is 35C (yes, not 25C). Is the reaction product-favoured at this temperature?
Explain.

#2. The graph shows the effect of temperature on the

vapour pressure of three liquids: chloroform (CHCl3),
carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and water.
a) Based on the vapour pressure data in the graph, rank
the substances from lowest to highest vapour pressure
(volatility). In a few words only, indicate how you made
this decision.

b) Many people are surprised by their answer to part (a).

Explain in detail, at the molecular level, what causes carbon tetrachloride to be less volatile than chloroform.
(Hint: Include structures/geometries and explanations of factors that influence the strengths of IMFs.)