At T(K) in a reaction \(A(g) \rightarrow B(g) + C(g)\), x J of heat was absorbed and y J of work is done by the system. What is \(\Delta_r H\) (in J) for the reaction? (R= gas constant)
Show Hint
Remember that \(\Delta H\) accounts for both internal energy change and pressure-volume work at constant pressure.
Concept:
Enthalpy change \(\Delta H\) is related to internal energy change \(\Delta U\) by the relation \(\Delta H = \Delta U + \Delta n_g RT\).
Step 1: Use the first law of thermodynamics to find \(\Delta U\).
From the first law, \(\Delta U = q + w\).
Given heat absorbed \(q = +x\) and work done by the system \(w = -y\):
\[
\Delta U = x - y
\]
Step 2: Determine the change in moles of gas (\(\Delta n_g\)).
The reaction is \(A(g) \rightarrow B(g) + C(g)\).
\[
\Delta n_g = (\text{moles of gaseous products}) - (\text{moles of gaseous reactants}) = (1 + 1) - 1 = 1
\]
Step 3: Calculate \(\Delta_r H\).
\[
\Delta_r H = \Delta U + \Delta n_g RT
\]
\[
\Delta_r H = (x - y) + (1)RT = x - y + RT
\]
\[
\boxed{x - y + RT}
\]