Chapter 20, Problem 87A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The meaning of negative free energy for a reaction is to be interpreted.

Concept introduction:

The Gibbs free energy for a system or a reaction depends on the enthalpy change and entropy change of the system.

Answer to Problem 87A

If a system has negative free energy change it, means that the intimal state of the system have more free energy than the final state. So the reaction the system undergoes becomes spontaneous.

Explanation of Solution

Since negative energy change means the initial state has more free energy, it will easily lose energy to reach its final state without any external effort. Therefore the reactions of the system happen on their own and are called spontaneous reactions.

Conclusion

If the free energy sign is negative then the reactions of the system become spontaneous.