Chapter 18.3, Problem 17SP

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The reason why the equilibrium position of the reaction $2{\text{SO}}_2\left(\text{g}\right)+{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}\left(\text{g}\right)\rightleftharpoons {\text{2SO}}_{\text{3}}\left(\text{g}\right)+\text{heat}$ is affected by lowering the temperature is to be stated.

Concept Introduction: Le Chatelier’s principle states that if stress is applied to a system that is in dynamic equilibrium then the system changes in a way that relieves the stress.

Answer to Problem 17SP

The equilibrium position shifts towards the product side (right side) by lowering the temperature.

Explanation of Solution

The given reaction is;

  $2{\text{SO}}_2\left(\text{g}\right)+{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}\left(\text{g}\right)\rightleftharpoons {\text{2SO}}_{\text{3}}\left(\text{g}\right)+\text{heat}$

The equilibrium position will shift to the right side which is towards the product side by lowering the temperature in order to reduce the stress.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The reason why the equilibrium position of the reaction $2{\text{SO}}_2\left(\text{g}\right)+{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}\left(\text{g}\right)\rightleftharpoons {\text{2SO}}_{\text{3}}\left(\text{g}\right)+\text{heat}$ is affected by decreasing the pressure is to be stated.

Concept Introduction: Le Chatelier’s principle states that if stress is applied to a system that is in dynamic equilibrium then the system changes in a way that relieves the stress.

Answer to Problem 17SP

The equilibrium will shift to the reactant side (left side).

Explanation of Solution

The given reaction is;

  $2{\text{SO}}_2\left(\text{g}\right)+{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}\left(\text{g}\right)\rightleftharpoons {\text{2SO}}_{\text{3}}\left(\text{g}\right)+\text{heat}$

The equilibrium position will shift to the left side which is towards the reactant side by when the pressure is reduced as there is more gaseous molecules in order to reduce the stress.