Crystal Lattice Energy Calculator (Born-Haber Cycle)
Calculate the lattice energy of ionic compounds through the Born-Haber cycle, tracking each enthalpy contribution for research or study.
Born-Haber Inputs
Use standard Born-Haber cycle enthalpies. All inputs are in kJ/mol and should follow the conventional sign for exothermic/exothermic steps.
All values are required. Use negative numbers for exothermic terms and positive for energy inputs that add to the cycle.
Results
The computed lattice energy represents the enthalpy required to separate the ionic lattice into gas-phase ions, consistent with the Born-Haber framework.
Methodology & guidance
All calculations stem directly from the Born-Haber cycle. Provide the formation, sublimation, bond dissociation, ionization, and electron affinity values in kJ/mol. The calculator subtracts the loss terms from the formation enthalpy to isolate the lattice contribution.
Data source
Authoritative chemistry references outline each enthalpy term within the Born-Haber cycle. Use published experimental data when precision matters.
Glossary of terms
- Enthalpy of formation: Heat change for forming one mole of the ionic compound from its elements.
- Ionization energy: Energy needed to remove an electron from a gaseous atom.
- Electron affinity: Energy released when an electron is added to a gaseous atom (enter as a signed value).
- Bond dissociation energy: Energy to break the diatomic bond into radicals.
- Sublimation energy: Energy to convert the metal to the gas phase without passing through the liquid.
FAQs
What is lattice energy? It is the energy required to separate one mole of an ionic compound into its gaseous ions.
How is lattice energy calculated? Through the Born-Haber cycle, which adds up several enthalpy terms and compares them with the formation enthalpy to isolate the lattice contribution.