Thermodynamics and Electrochemistry
AdvancedThermodynamics predicts whether reactions are spontaneous through entropy and Gibbs free energy. Entropy (S) measures disorder and increases in processes that spread energy. Gibbs free energy (G=H-TS) combines enthalpy and entropy to determine spontaneity: negative delta-G means spontaneous.
Electrochemistry links thermodynamics to electron transfer: galvanic cells produce electricity from spontaneous redox reactions, while electrolytic cells use electricity to drive non-spontaneous reactions. Covers entropy, Gibbs free energy, spontaneity, galvanic and electrolytic cells, standard reduction potentials, Nernst equation, and Faraday law for AP Chemistry Unit 9.
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- •Predict entropy changes based on particle count, phase, and temperature
- •Calculate Gibbs free energy and determine spontaneity from delta-G, delta-H, and delta-S
- •Relate standard cell potential to delta-G and equilibrium constant K
- •Diagram and explain galvanic (voltaic) and electrolytic cells
- •Apply Faraday law to calculate mass deposited in electrolysis
Recommended Resources
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Books
Chemistry: The Central Science
by Brown, LeMay, Bursten, Murphy
Electrochemical Methods
by Bard and Faulkner
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