What does Δ_mixH = 0 indicate about a mixture of perfect gases?

Prepare for the ACS Physical Chemistry: Thermochemistry Test with detailed questions, flashcards, hints, and explanations. Get ready to excel in the exam!

The correct response is that Δ_mixH = 0 indicates that the enthalpy change during mixing is zero. This condition typically occurs in ideal or perfect gases, where the interaction energies between the different species are negligible. In other words, the energy of the system does not change when two different gases are mixed because there are no specific interactions that require energy to overcome.

In thermodynamic terms, this means that the total enthalpy of the mixture is simply the sum of the enthalpies of the individual gases before mixing. Additionally, the assumption of ideal gas behavior reinforces this because it implies that the behavior of the gases can be approximated as non-interacting particles that occupy the same volume.

It is also important to note that while enthalpy change is zero, other properties such as entropy can change due to the increased disorder when gases mix. Gibbs energy changes can also occur depending on system constraints, and pressures may vary depending on the conditions of the system. However, those aspects do not negate the specific significance of Δ_mixH = 0 relating solely to enthalpy changes during mixing.

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