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Born-Haber lattice enthalpy

Thermodynamics
AQA 7405
ORIGINAL

sum of enthalpy changes around a Hess cycle = 0

Give every cycle arrow its sign; electron affinity is often already negative.

Board and spec code confirmed against AQA 7405 · registry checked 2026-07-11How this checking works

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Q1

For NaCl(s): enthalpy of formation = -411, Na atomisation = +108, half Cl-Cl bond dissociation = +121, first ionisation energy of Na = +496 and first electron affinity of Cl = -349 kJ/mol. Calculate the lattice enthalpy of formation.

[4 marks]

Total for this question: 4

Do the calculation on paper first — then mark it.

Where the marks get lost

  • Changing the supplied sign of electron affinity.
  • Using lattice dissociation enthalpy when the question asks for lattice formation enthalpy.

Exam tip: Write one algebraic Hess equation from gaseous atoms and ions to the solid before substituting values.

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