Lesson 4: Gibbs Free Energy (Optional)

In thermodynamics, a field of Chemistry, Gibbs free energy is a thermodynamic potential.

  • It can be used to calculate the maximum work that may be performed by a thermodynamically closed system.
  • Diffusion is driven by a decrease in Gibbs free energy or chemical potential difference.

Put simply:

  • Gibbs free energy is usable energy; energy that is available to do work.