Question:

For the following reaction at 300 K: \[ \text{A}_2(g) + 3\text{B}_2(g) \rightarrow 2\text{AB}_3(g) \] The enthalpy change is \(+15 \, \text{kJ}\), then the internal energy change is:

Updated On: May 1, 2026
  • 19988.4 J
  • 200 J
  • 1999 J
  • 1.9988 kJ
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

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:

  • \(\Delta H\) is the enthalpy change (given as \( +15 \, \text{kJ} \)).
  • \(\Delta U\) is the internal energy change.
  • \(\Delta n\) is the change in moles of gas during the reaction.
  • \(R\) is the universal gas constant (\( 8.314 \, \text{J/mol K} \)).
  • \(T\) is the temperature in Kelvin (given as \( 300 \, \text{K} \)).

First, we calculate the change in moles of gas (\( \Delta n \)). For the given reaction:

  • Reactants: \( 1 \, \text{mol of } \text{A}_2(g) \) and \( 3 \, \text{mol of } \text{B}_2(g) \) for a total of \( 4 \) moles.
  • Products: \( 2 \, \text{mol of } \text{AB}_3(g) \).

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

.

 

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