i find it fascinating that i
still cannot remember that
yes, YES-

the energy change when one mole of compound
is formed from its constituent elements in their
standard states under st. conditions

can be used to determine the energetic stability of the
compound relative to its constituent elements;

accordingly,
if standard enthalpy of formation is less than 0,
compound is more energetically stable than its
constituent elements. (i suspect this is due to the exothermic
nature of reaction, as more energy is req to form bonds than
to break them in forming the product)

goodness.
chemistry. biology.economics.mathematics.

God gave me a brain-

i really ought to use it. =)