entropy

[00945584]

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does entopy affect equlibrium in the sense that you are continously redefining your equilibrium due to the universe leading to increase in entropy. (2nd law of thermodynamics)

 

[combatwombat]

Yes, entropy can affect an equilibrium - though I'm not sure how important this is for the mcat. Generally, if a reaction produces 2 products from 1 reactant, the product side of that equilibrium will be favored (i.e. increase in entropy is favored).

In organic chemistry you often talk about entropy being a "driving force" for some reactions.

 

[sv3]

I'm not sure how you rank entropy as a factor in terms of its effect on equilibrium but it is a good question. I think I've only considered it during Lechatalier type questions (especially for pressure and temp) and obviously when calculating delta S or delta G. Hopefully the question itself tips you off that you need to look at entropy. Most of the time though, in kinetics and acid base reactions, I just look at Keq and and let the concentrations of the products guide me and of course heat changes when present.

 

[12345a]

ΔG = ΔH - TΔS

ΔG = -RT ln(k)