Question:

\( \Delta \)G\( ^\circ \) vs T plot for the formation of MgO, involving reaction

2Mg + O2 \( \to \) 2MgO, will look like :

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\(\Delta G^\circ = \Delta H^\circ - T\Delta S^\circ\): the slope of the Ellingham line is \(-\Delta S^\circ\), and it changes when the metal melts or boils.
Updated On: Oct 31, 2026
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: In 2Mg + O2 \(\to\) 2MgO, a mole of gas is consumed, so \(\Delta S^\circ\) is negative and the slope of \(\Delta G^\circ\) vs T (= \(-\Delta S^\circ\)) is positive: \(\Delta G^\circ\) rises with T.
Step 2: At the boiling point of Mg (about 1363 K) Mg changes from liquid to gas; the reaction then consumes even more gas (2Mg(g) + O2(g) \(\to\) 2MgO(s)), \(\Delta S^\circ\) becomes more negative and the slope becomes steeper.
Step 3: The graph is therefore a rising line that bends upward into a steeper rising line at a higher temperature.
Answer: (A) the first graph (rising line with a sharper rise after the bend)
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