Chemistry Thermochemistry ETEA 2024
PMDC Verified Question 14 of 81
The heat of sublimation of potassium is \( 98 \text{ kJ/mol} \), the heat of dissociation of bromine gas is \( 192.5 \text{ kJ/mol} \). The ionization energy of K is \( 414 \text{ kJ/mol} \). The electron affinity of Br is \( -334.7 \text{ kJ/mol} \) and the heat of formation of KBr is \( -405.8 \text{ kJ/mol} \). Calculate the lattice energy of KBr.
A
\( -669.5 \)
B
\( 679.3 \)
C
\( -679.3 \)
D
\( 669.5 \)
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option C: \( -679.3 \)
Concept:

The Born-Haber cycle uses Hess's law to map out the entire energy profile of an ionic solid. We must sum all steps to equal the total heat of formation.

Formula:

$$ \Delta H_f = \Delta H_{\text{sub}} + IE + \frac{1}{2}\Delta H_{\text{diss}} + EA + LE $$

Solution:

  • Because KBr contains only one Br atom, we only need half a mole of \( Br_2 \) gas. Thus, dissociation energy = \( 192.5 / 2 = 96.25 \text{ kJ/mol} \).


  • Set up the equation:
    \( -405.8 = 98 \text{ (sub)} + 414 \text{ (IE)} + 96.25 \text{ (diss)} + (-334.7) \text{ (EA)} + LE \)


  • Sum the indirect step energies: \( 98 + 414 + 96.25 - 334.7 = 273.55 \text{ kJ/mol} \).


  • Solve for Lattice Energy (LE):
    \( LE = -405.8 - 273.55 = -679.35 \text{ kJ/mol} \).


  • The closest matched option is exactly \( -679.3 \).


Why other options are incorrect:

Option A (-669.5) results from mathematical errors. Positive values (B and D) imply the formation of the lattice absorbs energy, which violates the fundamental stability laws of ionic compounds.

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