In knowing #DeltaG_(rxn)# for the following reactions at #25^@ "C"# and #"1 atm"#, can we say anything about the reaction speeds?

#A)# #"NaHCO"_3(s) + "HCl"(aq) -> "NaCl"(aq) + "H"_2"O"(l) + "CO"_2(g)#

#DeltaG_(rxn)^@ = -"40.5 kJ/mol"#

#B)# #"CH"_4(g) + 2"O"_2(g) -> "CO"_2(g) + 2"H"_2"O"(l)#

#DeltaG_(rxn)^@ = -"818 kJ/mol"#

1 Answer
Truong-Son N.
Feb 9, 2018

Of course not. #DeltaG# is a thermodynamic parameter, and speed is kinetic. We cannot relate #DeltaG_(rxn)# to activation energy, and thus, we cannot say anything about reaction rate.

We CAN say that both reactions are spontaneous, and that reaction B is MORE spontaneous. Which one has a greater tendency to shoot towards equilibrium? Which one is closer to equilibrium right now?

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