Is stablility a byproduct of a chemical reaction?

In summary, the stability of the product in a chemical reaction is generally greater than the starting material. Additionally, universal entropy is constantly increasing, while local entropy can decrease. Some reactions, such as the explosive TATP, are driven by entropy alone and produce products that are not thermodynamically favored.
  • #1
LogicalAcid
137
0
In other words, the whole point of the reaction is not to stabilize? And then, how does entropy have anything to do with a reaction?
 
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  • #2
I'm not sure I understand what you mean, but...

In general, the product of a chemical reaction is more stable (thermodynamically) than the starting material. Also remember that UNIVERSAL entropy is what is constantly increasing. Local entropy can decrease (condensing water, for example). But like I said, I'm not sure what exactly you're asking. If you clarify maybe I can help more.
 
  • #3
pzona said:
I'm not sure I understand what you mean, but...

In general, the product of a chemical reaction is more stable (thermodynamically) than the starting material. Also remember that UNIVERSAL entropy is what is constantly increasing. Local entropy can decrease (condensing water, for example). But like I said, I'm not sure what exactly you're asking. If you clarify maybe I can help more.

I second the above and add: That some reactions are driven by entropy alone.
For example the entropic explosive TATP, tri acetone tri peroxide. The rapid reaction from
a solid to gases. One of the products is acetone ! (so not thermodynamically driven)
http://en.wikipedia.org./wiki/Acetone_peroxide
 

Related to Is stablility a byproduct of a chemical reaction?

1. What is stability in a chemical reaction?

Stability in a chemical reaction refers to the ability of a chemical system to resist changes and maintain its initial state. This can include factors such as temperature, pressure, and concentration.

2. How is stability achieved in a chemical reaction?

Stability in a chemical reaction is achieved through the formation of new chemical bonds that result in a more energetically favorable state. This can involve the release or absorption of energy in the form of heat or light.

3. Can a chemical reaction be stable and unstable at the same time?

Yes, a chemical reaction can be stable and unstable at the same time. This is because stability is a relative concept and can depend on external factors such as temperature and pressure. A chemical reaction may be stable at one set of conditions, but become unstable under different conditions.

4. How does stability affect the rate of a chemical reaction?

In general, more stable chemical reactions tend to have slower reaction rates compared to less stable reactions. This is because stable reactions have a higher activation energy, meaning they require more energy to start the reaction. However, there are exceptions to this rule and the rate of a chemical reaction can also be influenced by other factors such as the concentration of reactants and the presence of a catalyst.

5. Is stability always a desired outcome in a chemical reaction?

Not necessarily. While stability is often desired in the final product of a chemical reaction, it is not always the main goal. Some reactions may be intentionally designed to be unstable in order to produce specific products or to create a more energetically favorable state. Additionally, unstable reactions can also be used in industrial processes or in research to study reaction mechanisms and kinetics.

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