Entropy & Free Energy in Real Systems

In this chapter, the authors have dedicated their time to the phenomenon of entropy and Gibbs free energy as the most important tools of quantifying the spontaneity and possibility of chemical reactions. The parameter known as entropy, which is used to measure the disorder of a system helps in determining in which direction a chemical reaction will take place and Gibbs free energy is relied upon to combine the enthalpy and entropy parameters in determining whether or not a chemical reaction is going to occur at a constant temperature and pressure. The chapter looks at the relation between the equilibrium constant and the free energy that presents an insight into the equilibrium in a reaction as well as in chemical thermodynamics. Their application in the industry e.g. in chemical synthesis, metallurgical processes, pharmaceutical production and energy storage are explained to justify the practical value of these concepts. Gibbs free energy knowledge helps chemists and engineers to select the most favorable conditions of a reaction, attain high yield, and develop processes that consume less energy. The chapter relates the theoretical thermodynamics with the actual use of free energy and entropy in an optimization and designing of processes in industries and developing sustainable processes of chemicals. This chapter has included a theory and practical examples in the modern industries and therefore provided a guideline that can be applied by students in carrying out scholarly research and in the industry to apply the concepts of thermodynamics.