Understanding Gibbs Free Energy in Chemistry

Learn what G means in chemistry, focusing on Gibbs free energy and its role in predicting chemical reactions.

234 views

In chemistry, G typically stands for Gibbs free energy. It is a thermodynamic quantity used to predict the direction of chemical processes and reactions. At constant temperature and pressure, a negative Gibbs free energy change (ΔG) indicates a spontaneous reaction, while a positive ΔG suggests a non-spontaneous reaction.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is Gibbs free energy used for? Gibbs free energy is used to determine the spontaneity of chemical reactions.
  2. How is Gibbs free energy calculated? It can be calculated using the formula G = H - TS, where H is enthalpy, T is temperature, and S is entropy.
  3. What does a negative Gibbs free energy signify? A negative Gibbs free energy change indicates that a reaction is spontaneous.
  4. Can Gibbs free energy be used in practical applications? Yes, it is used in various fields such as biochemistry, chemical engineering, and thermodynamics.