Given
N2(g) + 3H2(g) → 2NH3(g); = –92.4 kJ mol–1
What is the standard enthalpy of formation of NH3 gas?
Given: For the given reaction,
N2(g) + 3H2(g) → 2NH3(g)
Enthalpy of reaction (ΔrH°) = –92.4 kJ mol–1
To calculate standard enthalpy of formation of NH3 gas, first we will divide the whole reaction by 2, so that we get 1 mol of NH3
∴ N2 (g) + H2(g) → NH3(g)
Hence, standard enthalpy of NH3 is equal to the 1/2 ΔrH°
As, ΔrH° = –92.4 kJ mol–1
∴ Standard enthalpy of NH3 =
⇒Standard enthalpy of NH3 = -46.2 kJ mol-1
Thus, standard enthalpy of formation of NH3 gas = -46.2 kJ mol-1
Note: Standard enthalpy of formation is the amount of heat absorbed or evolved when 1 mole of the substance is directly obtained from its constituent elements.