What does a positive ΔG indicate?

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Multiple Choice

What does a positive ΔG indicate?

A positive ΔG means the reaction increases the system’s free energy, so it is endergonic and requires input of energy to proceed. Because it is not energetically favorable on its own, it won’t occur spontaneously unless energy from somewhere else is supplied or the reaction is coupled to a more favorable process (for example, ATP hydrolysis in cells can provide the needed energy). This contrasts with negative ΔG, which indicates an exergonic, spontaneous process that releases energy. If ΔG were zero, the reaction would be at equilibrium with no net change.

A positive ΔG means the reaction increases the system’s free energy, so it is endergonic and requires input of energy to proceed. Because it is not energetically favorable on its own, it won’t occur spontaneously unless energy from somewhere else is supplied or the reaction is coupled to a more favorable process (for example, ATP hydrolysis in cells can provide the needed energy). This contrasts with negative ΔG, which indicates an exergonic, spontaneous process that releases energy. If ΔG were zero, the reaction would be at equilibrium with no net change.

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