Chemistry 112

Using Thermodynamic Values to Find Equilibrium Constants

Example

Find the molar solubility of Fe(OH)3 in water at 25 °C.

Ksp for Fe(OH)3 is not listed in the Table of Solubility Product Constants

This means we need to find Ksp from thermodynamic data

Write the balanced reaction:

Fe(OH)3(s) Fe3+(aq) + 3 OH(aq)

ΔGf°(Fe(OH)3(s)) = –696.6 kJ/mol

ΔGf°(Fe3+(aq)) = –4.7 kJ/mol

ΔGf°(OH(aq)) = –157.2 kJ/mol

ΔG° = [–4.7 + 3(–157.2)] – [–696.6] = 220.3 kJ/mol

Then, Ksp = exp(–(220300 J)/(8.314 J·mol–1K–1 × 298 K) = 2.42×10–39

Now, the solubility can be done determined using the equilibrium constant:

Fe(OH)3(s) Fe3+(aq) + 3 OH(aq)

Ksp = [Fe3+]e[OH]e3 = 2.42×10–39



Initial00

Change+x+3x

Equilibriumx3x

2.42×10–39 = (x)(3x)3 = 27x4

x = 9.73×10–11

The solubility of Fe(OH)3 in water at 25 °C is 9.73×10–11 M

 

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