What is the formula for calculating Delta G?

Study for the OSAT Physical Science Test. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The formula for calculating Delta G, or Gibbs free energy change, is represented by Delta G = Delta H - TDelta S. In this formula, Delta H stands for the change in enthalpy, T represents the absolute temperature in Kelvin, and Delta S denotes the change in entropy.

This equation is significant because it allows us to determine whether a process will occur spontaneously. A negative value for Delta G indicates that a reaction can occur spontaneously under the given conditions, while a positive value suggests the reaction is non-spontaneous.

In essence, the equation shows that the change in free energy is influenced not only by the total heat content of the system (Delta H) but also by the disorder of the system (Delta S), scaled by the temperature. As temperature increases, the influence of the entropy on the free energy change becomes more pronounced, thus playing a key role in whether or not a process will be favorable.

The other options presented do not accurately reflect the relationship defined by the Gibbs free energy equation. Therefore, the correct expression highlights the balance between enthalpy and entropy in determining the spontaneity of a reaction.

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