Enthalpy of Neutralization Formula:
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The enthalpy of neutralization (ΔH) is the heat energy change per mole of water formed when an acid and base react to form water under standard conditions. For strong acids and bases, this value is typically around -57.1 kJ/mol.
The calculator uses the enthalpy of neutralization equation:
Where:
Explanation: The negative sign indicates the reaction is exothermic (releases heat). The equation calculates the energy change per mole of water formed.
Details: Calculating enthalpy of neutralization helps understand reaction energetics, compare acid-base strength, and predict reaction behavior under different conditions.
Tips: Enter heat energy in kJ and amount of substance in moles. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the enthalpy change per mole.
Q1: Why is ΔH negative for neutralization?
A: The negative sign indicates the reaction is exothermic - it releases heat energy to the surroundings.
Q2: What's the typical ΔH for strong acid-strong base?
A: Approximately -57.1 kJ/mol at standard conditions, as all strong acid-base neutralizations involve the same net ionic reaction.
Q3: How does ΔH vary with acid/base strength?
A: Weak acids/bases typically show less negative ΔH values due to energy used in their dissociation.
Q4: What are common sources of error?
A: Heat loss to surroundings, incomplete neutralization, and inaccurate measurement of temperature change or concentrations.
Q5: How does temperature affect ΔH?
A: While ΔH is relatively constant over small temperature ranges, significant temperature changes can affect the measured value.