Consider the gas-phase isomerization reaction
cis-C4H10(g)⇌trans-C4H10(g)
for which ΔG∘=0.00kJ mol−1 at 298 K. Treat ΔG∘ as constant over the temperature span discussed.
(a) Determine the value of the equilibrium constant at 298 K.
(b) Calculate the equilibrium constant at 650 K.
(c) Discuss, without further calculation, whether the direction in which the equilibrium lies (reactants vs. products) changes appreciably between 298 K and 650 K under the constant-ΔG∘ assumption.
(d) Describe one experimental observable (macroscopic or spectroscopic) that could be monitored to test the prediction made in part (c).