Chemistry Thermochemistry MDCAT 2013
PMDC Verified Question 75 of 81
Heat of formation (\( \Delta H_f^\circ \)) for \( CO_2 \) is:
A
\( -390 \text{ kJ/mole} \)
B
\( +394 \text{ kJ/mole} \)
C
\( -294 \text{ kJ/mole} \)
D
\( -394 \text{ kJ/mole} \)
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option D: \( -394 \text{ kJ/mole} \)
Concept:

The standard enthalpy of formation is the heat change when one mole of a compound is synthesized from its constituent elements in their standard physical states under standard conditions (298 K, 1 atm).

Formula:

$$ C_{(s, \text{graphite})} + O_{2(g)} \rightarrow CO_{2(g)} $$

Solution:

  • The formation of carbon dioxide from solid graphite and gaseous oxygen is highly exothermic because it creates very stable covalent double bonds.


  • The experimentally determined value for this complete oxidation (which is also the enthalpy of combustion of graphite) releases exactly \( -394 \text{ kJ/mol} \).


Why other options are incorrect:

Option B is positive (endothermic), which is impossible for this combustion process. Options A and C are incorrect numerical values.

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