How do we determine the number of neutrons in a given atom? First, let’s define some terms that you’ll need to be familiar with. The atomic number of an atom is the number of protons in the nucleus of that atom. The mass number (also called the nucleon number) of an atom is the total […]
Catalyst A catalyst is a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction but it does not undergo a chemical reaction itself. The catalyst allows the reaction an alternative pathway to take place. The catalyst does not lower the activation energy of the reaction. Analogy
The term microstate refers to the behavior of atoms and molecules in terms of how energy is redistributed among the particles in a system. A microstate is the arrangement of molecules within a macrostate, that is, within a system with very specific properties. If atoms have more energy and freedom of movement in a macrostate, […]
Bond Enthalpy Introduction In order to understand why breaking bonds requires energy (endothermic) and making bonds releases energy (exothermic), one must first understand the nature of a chemical bond and why it occurs in the first place. Remember that bonds are due to the exchange or sharing of electrons between atoms. Forming bonds is a […]
Enthalpy change For a reaction Bonds Know that Breaking bonds always requires energy (never releases energy) Forming bonds always releases energy (never requires energy) Exothermic and endothermic process Breaking bonds is always an endothermic process (whether breaking single, double or triple bonds). Forming bonds is an exothermic process (whether making single, double or triple bonds). However, […]
