ChemistryA LevelEnergetics & Thermodynamics

Bond enthalpies formula

The bond enthalpies formula as it is used in A Level Chemistry, taken from the A Level Chemistry formula sheet.

The formula

ΔH=(bonds broken)(bonds made)\Delta H = \sum(\text{bonds broken}) - \sum(\text{bonds made})

How to use it in the exam

  • Write the formula down before substituting — most mark schemes award a method mark for a correct, clearly quoted formula.
  • Check every quantity is in consistent units before you substitute, then substitute in one step so the working stays easy to follow.
  • Show the rearrangement rather than jumping to the answer, and give the final value to the accuracy the question asks for.

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