Sample interview questions: How do you calculate the free energy change in a biological process?
Sample answer:
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Define the System and Process:
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Clearly identify the biological system undergoing the process.
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Define the initial and final states of the system.
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Calculate the Change in Enthalpy (ΔH):
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Determine the enthalpy change (ΔH) associated with the process. This can involve:
- Measuring the heat flow (Q) at constant pressure using calorimetry methods.
- Using standard enthalpy change data for specific reactions or transformations.
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Calculate the Change in Entropy (ΔS):
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Determine the change in entropy (ΔS) associated with the process. This may involve:
- Calculating the change in entropy using statistical thermodynamics or spectroscopic data.
- Using standard entropy change data for specific reactions or transformations.
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Calculate the Gibbs Free Energy Change (ΔG):
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Utilize the equation: ΔG = ΔH – TΔS, where T is the absolute temperature in Kelvin.
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Calculate the free energy change (ΔG) by substituting the values of ΔH and ΔS.
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Interpret the Free Energy Change:
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A negative ΔG indicates a spontaneous process at the given temperature.
- A positive ΔG indicates a non-spontaneous process at … Read full answer