To find the internal energy change (\( \Delta U \)) for the given reaction, we will use the relation between enthalpy change (\( \Delta H \)) and internal energy change (\( \Delta U \)). This relationship includes the work done due to expansion or compression under constant pressure:
\(\Delta H = \Delta U + \Delta nRT\)
Where:
First, we calculate the change in moles of gas (\( \Delta n \)). For the given reaction:
Change in moles of gas, \( \Delta n = \text{moles of products} - \text{moles of reactants} = 2 - 4 = -2 \).
Given \(\Delta H = +15 \, \text{kJ} = 15000 \, \text{J}\) (since 1 kJ = 1000 J).
Substitute into the formula:
\(\Delta U = \Delta H - \Delta nRT\)
Substitute the known values:
\(\Delta U = 15000 \, \text{J} - (-2 \times 8.314 \, \text{J/mol K} \times 300 \, \text{K}) = 15000 \, \text{J} + 2 \times 8.314 \times 300\)
\(\Delta U = 15000 \, \text{J} + 4988.4 \, \text{J}\)
\(\Delta U = 19988.4 \, \text{J}\)
Therefore, the internal energy change (\( \Delta U \)) for this reaction is 19988.4 J.
Thus, the correct answer is
19988.4 J
.