Reaction energetics refers to the study of energy changes that occur during chemical reactions. In the nitrite to nitrate oxidation process, the energetics are crucial to understanding how and why the reaction proceeds. Gibbs free energy, identified as, is central to this understanding, indicating whether energy is released or absorbed.
- A negative signifies that the reaction is exergonic and will proceed spontaneously, releasing energy.
- For nitrite oxidation, per mole of nitrite clarified that the reaction releases energy, fostering bacterial growth.
Understanding this energy release helps explain why nitrite oxidation is favorable for the bacteria, as it provides energy necessary for survival and proliferation.