If the enthalpy of formation of CO2(g) is -393.5 kJ/mol, what is the enthalpy change for the combustion of 1 mole of carbon?

1 question

1 item

Q: If the enthalpy of formation of CO2(g) is -393.5 kJ/mol, what is the enthalpy change for the combustion of 1 mole of carbon?

Solution: The combustion of carbon to form CO2 releases -393.5 kJ, which is the enthalpy change for the reaction.

Steps: 4

Step 1: Understand that the enthalpy of formation of CO2(g) is given as -393.5 kJ/mol. This means that when 1 mole of CO2 is formed from its elements, 393.5 kJ of energy is released.
Step 2: Recognize that the combustion of carbon (C) involves the reaction of carbon with oxygen (O2) to produce CO2.
Step 3: Realize that the enthalpy change for the combustion of carbon is the same as the enthalpy of formation of CO2, but with a negative sign because energy is released during combustion.
Step 4: Conclude that the enthalpy change for the combustion of 1 mole of carbon is -393.5 kJ.