What is the criterion of the feasibility of a reaction at any temperature?

\(\Delta G\) of the reaction must be negative

The correct answer is option 2. \(\Delta G\) of the reaction must be negative.

The feasibility of a chemical reaction refers to whether the reaction can occur under certain conditions, typically considering factors like temperature, pressure, and concentrations of reactants and products.The criterion for determining the feasibility of a reaction at any temperature is based on the change in Gibbs free energy \((\Delta G)\) of the reaction. Gibbs free energy is a thermodynamic quantity that incorporates both the enthalpy (heat) and entropy (disorder) changes of a system during a reaction. The relationship between Gibbs free energy and spontaneity is given by the equation:

\( \Delta G = \Delta H - T\Delta S \)

Where:

\(\Delta G\) is the change in Gibbs free energy.

\(\Delta H\) is the change in enthalpy (heat) of the reaction.

\(T\) is the temperature in Kelvin.

\(\Delta S\) is the change in entropy (disorder) of the reaction.

Now, let us consider the options:

1. \(\Delta G\) of the reaction must be positive: If \(\Delta G\) is positive, it means that the reaction requires an input of energy to proceed. In other words, the reaction is non-spontaneous under the given conditions.

2. \(\Delta G\) of the reaction must be negative: A negative \(\Delta G\) indicates that the reaction is spontaneous. It means that the reaction will proceed in the forward direction without needing external energy input. This is the correct criterion for the feasibility of a reaction.

3.\(\Delta G\) of the reaction must be equal to zero: If \(\Delta G\) is zero, it means that the reaction is at equilibrium, where the rates of the forward and reverse reactions are equal. This doesn't necessarily imply feasibility at any temperature.

4. Does not depend on \(\Delta G\) of the reaction: This statement is incorrect because ΔG is indeed a crucial factor in determining the feasibility of a reaction.

In summary, a negative \(\Delta G\) indicates that a reaction is thermodynamically favorable and spontaneous under the given conditions, making it the criterion for the feasibility of the reaction at any temperature.