Question
Explain why the bond enthalpy of a molecule is usually defined in terms of a gas-phase reaction. Why are bond-breaking processes always endothermic and bond-forming processes always exothermic?
Step 1
In the gas phase, there are no intermolecular forces or forces between separate molecules. Only covalent bonds exist. This means that the measurement of bond enthalpy can be more accurate because it is not influenced by other types of bonds or forces. Show more…
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