The first and second laws of thermodynamics can be combined to provide us with a

Question

The first and second laws of thermodynamics can be combined to provide us with an understanding of Gibbs free energy. How does this help us as cell biologists?

This allows us to determine how fast a reaction will occur.

This allows us to determine the Vmax of an enzyme catalyzed reaction.

This allows us to determine the activation energy of a chemical reaction.

This allows us to predict how favorable or unfavorable a biochemical reaction will be.

A)

This allows us to determine how fast a reaction will occur.

B)

This allows us to determine the Vmax of an enzyme catalyzed reaction.

C)

This allows us to determine the activation energy of a chemical reaction.

D)

This allows us to predict how favorable or unfavorable a biochemical reaction will be.

Explanation / Answer

C) This allows us to determine the activation energy of a chemical reaction.

The Gibbs free energy (G) of a system is a measure of the amount of usable energy in that system. The change in Gibbs free energy during a reaction provides useful information about the reaction's energetics and spontaneity (whether it can happen without added energy). We can write out a simple definition of the change in Gibbs free energy as:

                            G=Gfinal–Ginitial

In other words, G is the change in free energy of a system as it goes from some initial state, such as all reactants, to some other, final state, such as all products. This value tells us the maximum usable energy released (or absorbed) in going from the initial to the final state. In addition, its sign (positive or negative) tells us whether a reaction will occur spontaneously, that is, without added energy.

When we work with Gibbs free energy, we have to make some assumptions, such as constant temperature and pressure; however, these conditions hold roughly true for cells and other living systems.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse T
• Subjects

---

---

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.