In calculating ΔG, how does temperature T factor into the overall equation?

The correct answer highlights that temperature T is a multiplier affecting the entropy change (ΔS) in the calculation of the Gibbs free energy change (ΔG). The relationship is expressed in the equation:

ΔG = ΔH - TΔS

In this equation, temperature is indeed part of the term TΔS, which directly influences the ΔG value. A higher temperature can make the TΔS term larger, which can affect whether ΔG is positive or negative, determining the spontaneity of the reaction.

This connection implies that as temperature increases, the contribution of the entropy change to the Gibbs free energy change also increases. A favorable ΔS (positive) at higher temperatures could potentially drive a reaction that is non-spontaneous at lower temperatures (where ΔG would be positive) to become spontaneous (where ΔG would be negative). Thus, understanding how temperature serves as a multiplier in the equation provides critical insight into predicting the favorability of chemical processes.