A student experimentally determined the molar enthalpy of combustion of ethanol (M = 46.0 g mol−1) using the equipment shown in the following simplified diagram - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 9 - 2011 - Paper 1
Question 9
A student experimentally determined the molar enthalpy of combustion of ethanol (M = 46.0 g mol−1) using the equipment shown in the following simplified diagram.
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Worked Solution & Example Answer:A student experimentally determined the molar enthalpy of combustion of ethanol (M = 46.0 g mol−1) using the equipment shown in the following simplified diagram - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 9 - 2011 - Paper 1
Step 1
Calculate the heat absorbed by water (q)
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Answer
To find the heat absorbed by the water, we use the formula:
q=m⋅c⋅ΔT
where:
m = mass of water = 100.0 g = 0.100 kg
c = specific heat capacity of water = 4.18 kJ/kg·°C
(\Delta T = 40.0 °C)
Substituting the values:
q=0.100kg⋅4.18kJ/kg\cdotp°C⋅40.0°C=16.72kJ
Step 2
Calculate the molar enthalpy of combustion (ΔH)
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Answer
The molar enthalpy of combustion (ΔH) is calculated using the formula:
ΔH=nq
where:
q = heat absorbed by water = 16.72 kJ
n = amount of ethanol combusted = 0.0200 mol
Substituting the values:
ΔH=0.0200mol16.72kJ=836.0kJ/mol
Since this is a combustion reaction, it is exothermic, and the value should be reported as negative:
ΔH=−836.0kJ/mol
Step 3
Select the correct answer from the options
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Answer
Based on the calculation, the molar enthalpy of combustion is -836 kJ mol−1. Therefore, the correct option is: