Question:

In which one of the following reactions, entropy decreases?

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Entropy decreases when disorder decreases. Freezing or crystallization generally causes a decrease in entropy.
Updated On: Apr 29, 2026
  • Sodium chloride is dissolved in water
  • Water is heated from 303 K to 353 K
  • Sodium bicarbonate is decomposed to \(Na_2CO_3(s), CO_2(g)\) and \(H_2O(g)\)
  • Water crystallizes into ice
  • Dihydrogen molecule is decomposed into hydrogen atoms
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Entropy is the measure of randomness or disorder. Entropy decreases when a system becomes more ordered.

Step 1:
Compare liquid and solid states.
Liquid water has more randomness than ice because molecules can move more freely.

Step 2:
During crystallization.
When water crystallizes into ice: \[ \text{Liquid} \rightarrow \text{Solid} \] The molecules become more ordered.

Step 3:
Conclusion.
Since order increases, randomness decreases. Therefore, entropy decreases.
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