Chapter 20, Problem 20.106P

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

For the following reversible DNA double helix separation process, the entropy sign $\text{ΔS}$ for the forward reaction should be determined.

Concept introduction:

Entropy is a thermodynamic quantity, which is the measure of randomness in a system.  The term entropy is useful in explaining the spontaneity of a process.  For all spontaneous process in an isolated system there will be an increase in entropy.  Entropy is represented by the letter ‘S’. It is a state function.  The change in entropy gives information about the magnitude and direction of a process.  The entropy of one mole of substance at a given standard state is called standard molar entropy ($S^o$).

Entropy changes: it is used to describe the disorder. It is the amount of arrangements possible in a system at a particular state.

If the disorder increases in a system, then $\Delta S>0$ positive

If the disorder decreases in a system, then $\Delta S<0$ negative

If the disorder equal in a system, then $\Delta S=0$

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Identify is the $\text{ΔG}$ sign for the given forward process when $T\Delta S$ is smaller than $\Delta H$.

Concept introduction:

Free energy change is the term that is used to explain the total energy content in a thermodynamic system that can be converted into work.  The free energy is represented by the letter G.  All spontaneous process is associated with the decrease of free energy in the system.  The equation given below helps us to calculate the change in free energy in a system.

  $\text{ΔG = }\Delta {\rm H}\text{- T}\Delta \text{S}$

Where,

  $\text{ΔG }$ is the change in free energy of the system

  $\Delta {\rm H}$ is the change in enthalpy of the system

  $\text{T}$ is the absolute value of the temperature

  $\Delta \text{S}$ is the change in entropy in the system

(c)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The expression for $T$ in terms of $\Delta H$ and $\Delta S$ when the reaction is at equilibrium has to be derived.

Concept introduction:

Free energy change is the term that is used to explain the total energy content in a thermodynamic system that can be converted into work.  The free energy is represented by the letter G.  All spontaneous process is associated with the decrease of free energy in the system.  The equation given below helps us to calculate the change in free energy in a system.

  $\text{ΔG = }\Delta {\rm H}\text{- T}\Delta \text{S}$

Where,

  $\text{ΔG }$ is the change in free energy of the system

  $\Delta {\rm H}$ is the change in enthalpy of the system

  $\text{T}$ is the absolute value of the temperature

  $\Delta \text{S}$ is the change in entropy in the system