Question:

For the equilibrium, \(2\mathrm{H_2O} \rightleftharpoons \mathrm{H_3O^+} + \mathrm{OH^-}\), the value of \(\Delta G^\circ\) at 298 K is approximately :

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The equilibrium constant of this autoionisation is \(K_w = 10^{-14}\) at 298 K; use \(\Delta G^\circ = -RT\ln K\).
Updated On: Nov 5, 2026
  • \(-80\ \mathrm{kJ\ mol^{-1}}\)
  • \(100\ \mathrm{kJ\ mol^{-1}}\)
  • \(-100\ \mathrm{kJ\ mol^{-1}}\)
  • \(80\ \mathrm{kJ\ mol^{-1}}\)
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

The equilibrium constant for \(2\mathrm{H_2O} \rightleftharpoons \mathrm{H_3O^+} + \mathrm{OH^-}\) is \(K = K_w = 10^{-14}\) at 298 K (pure water has unit activity).
\(\Delta G^\circ = -RT\ln K = -2.303\,RT\log K_w\)
\(= 2.303 \times 8.314 \times 298 \times 14\ \mathrm{J\ mol^{-1}} \approx 79.9\times 10^{3}\ \mathrm{J\ mol^{-1}}\)
\(\Delta G^\circ \approx +80\ \mathrm{kJ\ mol^{-1}}\) (positive, since ionisation of water is non-spontaneous).
Answer: (4) 80 kJ mol\(^{-1}\)
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