For this question, the "entropy term" refers to "-TΔS". Addition reactions are generally favorable at low temperatures because ________.
A) the positive enthalpy term is larger than the negative entropy term
B) the negative enthalpy term is larger than the positive entropy term
C) the positive enthalpy term is smaller than the negative entropy term
D) the negative enthalpy term is smaller than the positive entropy term
E) the enthalpy and entropy terms are equal

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Addition reactions are generally exothermic, meaning they release heat, which corresponds to a negative enthalpy change (ΔH). At low temperatures, the impact of the entropy term (-TΔS) is minimized, making the negative enthalpy term more dominant in driving the reaction forward. This is because the entropy term's effect is temperature-dependent, and at lower temperatures, its contribution to the Gibbs free energy (ΔG = ΔH - TΔS) is less significant.

For This Question, the "Entropy Term" Refers to "-TΔS