What is the symbol used to represent enthalpy?

The symbol used to represent enthalpy is H. Enthalpy is a thermodynamic property that is particularly useful when dealing with processes occurring at constant pressure. It is a measure of the total heat content of a system and accounts for the internal energy of the system as well as the product of pressure and volume (PV).

Understanding the concept of enthalpy involves recognizing that it is often used in the context of chemical reactions and phase changes, where it helps describe how much energy is absorbed or released during such processes. The enthalpy change (ΔH) is frequently discussed in contexts like calorimetry and determining reaction spontaneity.

The use of the letter H specifically distinguishes enthalpy from other thermodynamic quantities, such as internal energy (usually denoted by U), and Gibbs free energy (G). Each of these thermodynamic quantities has its own unique significance and application in various areas of physical chemistry and thermodynamics.