An explosion is possible in a chain reaction when A. the reaction includes a chain branching...

An explosion is possible in a chain reaction when

	A.	the reaction includes a chain branching step
	B.	a termination step is the fastest step
	C.	the reaction has a positive free energy change
	D.	the reaction is endothermic

Solutions

Expert Solution

A chain branching step refers to a reaction that forms more chain carriers as products. If the number of chain carriers multiplies due to such reactions, it leads to spontaneous multiplication of energy, or in other words, an explosion.

Termination being the fastest step only inhibits the chain reaction faster than any other step in the chain, preventing further exchange of energy.

Positive free energy change implies that the reaction is non-spontaneous in the forward direction or, endergonic. Instead, it is spontaneous in the reverse reaction absorbing energy from the surroundings, which does not characterize a chain reaction. Examples of endergonic reactions are photosynthesis and melting of ice.

Endothermic reactions absorb energy to break bonds of the reactants. Temperature in endothermic chain reactions will continuously fall, making net free energy change positive, no matter how negative or positive entropy is.

Therefore A is the correct option.

Amanda K answered 1 year ago

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