Chapter 17, Problem 55A

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation:

The effect on the equilibrium position when more concentration of $\text{CO}$ is added needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Equilibrium is the state in which there is no variation in the concentration of reactants and products with time.

Answer to Problem 55A

When more concentration of reactants is added to the reaction then number of collision increases between the particles. Thus the rate of reaction increases and equilibrium position is disturbed. Simultaneously, the rate of reverse reaction increases as more products are formed.

Explanation of Solution

When more concentration of $\text{CO}$ is added then the equilibrium positions shifts to right side to attains the equilibrium state with the more formation of ${\text{CH}}_{\text{4}}$ and ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The effect on the equilibrium position when the system is cooled needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Equilibrium is the state in which there is no variation in the concentration of reactants and products with time.

Answer to Problem 55A

When system is cooled or the temperature is decreased, then the equilibrium is shifts towards the right side or product side and vice versa.

Explanation of Solution

The system is cooled down in an exothermic reaction by decreasing in temperature.

If temperature decreases, then equilibrium shifts towards the right side because the forward reaction releases the heat and relieves the stress.

(c)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The effect on the equilibrium position when a catalyst is added needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Equilibrium is the state in which there is no variation in the concentration of reactants and products with time.

Answer to Problem 55A

A catalyst increases the rate of forward as well as backward reaction to the equal extent. So, the equilibrium is not altered.

Explanation of Solution

A catalyst increases the rate of forward as well as backward reaction to the equal extent. So, the equilibrium is not altered. However, the equilibrium may be attained earlier in the presence of a catalyst.

(d)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The effect on the equilibrium position by removing the product needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Equilibrium is the state in which there is no variation in the concentration of reactants and products with time.

Answer to Problem 55A

The equilibrium will respond to a decrease in the concentration of a product. The equilibrium shifts in the direction that will tend to bring the concentration of product back up, according to Le Chatelier’s principle.

Explanation of Solution

In any equilibrium, the removal of a product results in a shift to the right and the production of more products. The Le Chatelier’s principle predicts the equilibrium will respond to a decrease in the concentration of a product. The equilibrium shifts in the direction that will tend to bring the concentration of product back up

(e)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The effect on the equilibrium position by decreasing the volume needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Equilibrium is the state in which there is no variation in the concentration of reactants and products with time.

Answer to Problem 55A

When there is a decrease in volume, the equilibrium will shifts towards the side of the reaction with fewer moles.

Explanation of Solution

When there is a decrease in volume, the equilibrium will shifts towards the side of the reaction with fewer moles. There are few moles of reactants and so the equilibrium will favor the reactants and shift to the left.