What's the difference between State and Path functions?

[Susanna Givan 2B]

What's the difference between State and Path functions?

[Emily Tieu 2K]

A state function is not dependent on the path taken to obtain its current state. Because of this, state functions can be calculated through addition and subtraction (Final state - Initial state). Some examples of state functions are pressure, volume, temperature, heat capacity, etc. On the other hand, a path function is dependent on the path taken. Some examples are work and heat.

[Simrah_Ahmed1J]

This is a simplification, but state functions are an intrinsic property of a substance at that state whereas path functions are determined by the path taken from the previous/initial state to the final state.

[Edgar Velazquez 2K]

The value of state functions will be the same regardless of the path taken. This includes things like change in temperature, change in entropy, change in enthalpy, etc. All that matters in those cases is the final and initial values. Path functions don't work that way. You need to have information on the path taken from the initial to the final values in order to accurately calculate the value that you are trying to find. An example of this would be work.

[LovepreetSran_3H]

State functions are independent of the paths taken , whereas path functions are dependent on the path taken.

[Amy Jordan 2A]

Hi, state functions don't depend on the path taken from initial to final state and they are additive. Path functions do depend on the path taken to initial and final states. Examples of path functions are work and heat, while enthalpy is a state function for instance. Hope this helps!

[Clarence Clavite 2K]

State functions are independent of the path they take so because of this they are additive. Path functions on the other hand, do take into account the path taken so these numbers cannot simply be added.