Chapter 17.1, Problem 6LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Changes occurring in terms of energy of the universe during a physical and chemical process are to be determined.

Concept Introduction : Law of conservation of energy states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed. It can only be transformed from one form to another.

Answer to Problem 6LC

The energy of the universe remains constant during a physical or chemical process.

Explanation of Solution

During all physical and chemical processes, energy is exchanged between the system and the surroundings. If a certain amount of energy is lost by the system, that same amount of energy is gained by the surroundings and vice versa. During chemical reactions, bonds between atoms in the reactants must be broken to form new bonds in products by rearrangement of atoms. Energy is absorbed during the breaking of bonds and energy is released during bond formation.