Universe Entropy of Irreversible Reaction

[katielam2G]

How do you determine the universe entropy of an irreversible reaction? Why is there a difference between universe entropy of irreversible v reversible reactions?

[Esmeralda Polanco]

Irreversible Reaction Entropy Determination: For an irreversible reaction, the change in entropy universe (ΔS
universe) considers both the entropy change of the system (ΔS system) and the surroundings (ΔS surroundings​). The total entropy change of the universe is the sum of these two contributions: ΔS universe=ΔS system+ΔS surroundings. Irreversible reactions often lead to an overall increase in entropy (ΔS universe >0).

Difference from Reversible Reactions: Reversible reactions, which can proceed in both forward and reverse directions, ideally have a net entropy change of zero at equilibrium. This contrasts with irreversible reactions, where irreversible changes in the system and surroundings lead to a net increase in entropy.

Ultimately, irreversible reactions result in an increase in the entropy of the universe due to the combined effects of changes in the system and surroundings, whereas reversible reactions ideally maintain equilibrium with no net change in entropy.