Question

question 6
in the context of entropy, what does a negative δs indicate about a reaction?
the reaction leads to a decrease in disorder.
the reaction absorbs energy from the surroundings.
the reaction releases energy to the surroundings.
the reaction does not involve gases.

Explanation:

1. Recall the definition of entropy change ($\Delta S$): Entropy is a measure of disorder (or randomness) in a system. $\Delta S = S_{final} - S_{initial}$.
2. Analyze each option:

• Option 1: If $\Delta S$ is negative, $S_{final} < S_{initial}$, meaning disorder decreases. This matches the definition.
• Option 2: Absorbing energy relates to enthalpy (heat change, $\Delta H$), not entropy. Eliminate.
• Option 3: Releasing energy also relates to enthalpy, not entropy. Eliminate.
• Option 4: Entropy change depends on disorder, not just presence of gases (though gases affect disorder). A reaction with gases can still have $\Delta S < 0$ (e.g., gas molecules combining). Eliminate.

Answer:

The reaction leads to a decrease in disorder.