E 0 and ΔG

Question

E > 0 and ΔG < 0 for a spontaneous process.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This statement is true. According to the second law of thermodynamics, for a process to be spontaneous, the total entropy of the system and surroundings must increase (ΔS > 0). The Gibbs free energy equation takes both enthalpy and entropy into account, and the equation ΔG = ΔH - TΔS tells us whether a reaction is spontaneous or non-spontaneous. If ΔG is negative, it means the reaction is spontaneous because the change in enthalpy and entropy favor the formation of products over reactants, and the process releases energy. E > 0 indicates that the reaction is exothermic, which also favors spontaneity.

E > 0 and ΔG < 0 for a Spontaneous