For the sole direct task, state that positive ΔStotal makes the reaction feasible at 2048 K but high activation energy leaves it extremely slow.
Nitrous oxide, N2O, decomposes at high temperature to form nitrogen and oxygen.
Explain whether or not this reaction occurs at 2048 K by considering the values calculated in (a) and (b).
An explanation that makes reference to the following points:
- (thermodynamically) feasible because S_total is positive
- activation energy high so the reaction is very slow (at low temperatures)
Ignore thermodynamically stable/unstable Allow high temperature will provide E_a so reaction will proceed
Allow reaction may not happen as E_a is (very) high
Allow high E_a so kinetically stable
Allow high E_a so kinetically non-feasible
TE on 20(a)(iii) but not on 20(b)
(2)