Chapter 15, Problem 15.39QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The Le Chatelier’s principle has to be explained and how this principle helps us maximize the yields of reactions has to be identified.

Concept Introduction:

Le Chatelier’s principle: If equilibrium is disturbed by changing conditions, the system will adjust itself for the equilibrium to reverse the change.

Factor’s that effect chemical equilibria:

Concentration – Equilibrium will be affected by changing the concentration of reactant or product. If we increase the concentration of reactant system will try to reverse the change by favoring forward reaction and thus increase the concentration of products. Like-wise adding products increase yield of reactants.

Temperature – When the temperature increases, equilibrium will shift in the endothermic direction, in the direction that absorbs heat. When the temperature decreases equilibrium will shift in the exothermic direction, in the direction that releases heat.

Pressure – If the reaction consists of only liquid and solid reactants and products, pressure has no effect in the equilibrium.

In gas reactions if the number of moles has no change then there will be no effect by pressure on equilibrium.

If pressure increases then equilibrium will shift to the direction having less number of molecules and if pressure decreases system will shift to the direction having more number of molecules.