CAIE A Level Chemistry 9701 · Chemical energetics

Chemical energetics: describe question

Describe7 marksChallenge

The standard enthalpy change of formation of ethanol, ΔHf∘[CX2HX5OH(l)]\Delta H_f^\circ[\ce{C2H5OH(l)}], cannot be measured directly by calorimetry. The following standard enthalpy changes of combustion, ΔHc∘\Delta H_c^\circ, are known:

C(s)+OX2(g)→COX2(g)ΔHc∘=−394 kJ mol−1\ce{C(s) + O2(g) -> CO2(g)} \quad \Delta H_c^\circ = -394\ \text{kJ mol}^{-1} HX2(g)+12 OX2(g)→HX2O(l)ΔHc∘=−286 kJ mol−1\ce{H2(g) + 1/2 O2(g) -> H2O(l)} \quad \Delta H_c^\circ = -286\ \text{kJ mol}^{-1} CX2HX5OH(l)+3 OX2(g)→2 COX2(g)+3 HX2O(l)ΔHc∘=−1367 kJ mol−1\ce{C2H5OH(l) + 3O2(g) -> 2CO2(g) + 3H2O(l)} \quad \Delta H_c^\circ = -1367\ \text{kJ mol}^{-1}

Describe how Hess's law can be applied to determine ΔHf∘[CX2HX5OH(l)]\Delta H_f^\circ[\ce{C2H5OH(l)}]. Include in your description how the energy cycle is constructed and the steps used to combine the data.

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7 marks, so the mark scheme is looking for about 7 separate creditworthy points. Making the same point twice in different words earns it once.

Describe means: Say what happens or what something is like, in order and with detail. You are not being asked why. If there is data, quote it: name the trend, then give figures with units at the points where it changes.

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