Given the reaction at equilibrium #2SO_2(g) + O_2(g) rightleftharpoons 2SO_3(g)#, as the pressure is increased at a constant temperature, will the number of moles of #SO_3(g)# produced decrease, increase, or stay the same? Why?

Answer 1

The number of moles of #SO_3 (g)# produced will increase, as according to the comparison between pressure & moles via the Ideal Gas Law. (See explanation)

We start by finding the relationship between pressure and number of moles. Since temperature is constant, we can consider this:(derived from the Ideal Gas Law, #PV=nRT#: #P_1/n_1=P_2/n_2#, so pressure and moles are inversely proportional.

The number of moles of gas must drop since we raised the pressure.

Now we look at the reaction: On the reactants side, #2SO_2 (g) + O_2 (g)#, there's a total of 3 moles of gaseous molecules. On the products side, #2SO_3 (g)#, there's a total of 2 moles of gaseous molecules.
Since the number of moles of gaseous molecules must decrease, we would convert the reactants (3 moles of gaseous molecules) to products (2 moles of gaseous molecules). So, the number of moles of #SO_3 (g)# produced will increase.
Sign up to view the whole answer

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Sign up with email
Answer 2

The number of moles of SO3(g) produced will increase because increasing pressure shifts the equilibrium towards the side with fewer moles of gas, in this case, the side with more moles of gas (SO2(g) + O2(g)) to produce more moles of SO3(g), thereby increasing the yield of SO3(g).

Sign up to view the whole answer

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Sign up with email
Answer from HIX Tutor

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

Not the question you need?

Drag image here or click to upload

Or press Ctrl + V to paste
Answer Background
HIX Tutor
Solve ANY homework problem with a smart AI
  • 98% accuracy study help
  • Covers math, physics, chemistry, biology, and more
  • Step-by-step, in-depth guides
  • Readily available 24/7