Chapter 6, Problem 12E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:Whether the isotope ${}^{14}\text{C}$ that is used to label $\text{CO}$ in indicated reaction will remains with it for indefinite time or not should be determined.

  ${\text{H}}_2\text{O}\left(g\right)+\text{CO}\left(g\right)\rightleftharpoons {\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\left(g\right)+{\text{CO}}_2\left(g\right)$

Concept introduction: Le Chatelier’s established the qualitative effects of change in concentration or partial pressure of reactant on reaction equilibrium.

It suggests that if a certain change in concentration of substrates occurs then reaction proceeds so as to minimize the effects of changes. This way the direction of equilibrium can be altered by various changes and yield of the desired product can be enhanced. For example, Le Chatelier’s has improved the synthesis of ${\text{NH}}_{\text{3}}$ by Haber’s process.

The yield of ammonia is increased when ammonia already formed is removed from the reactor that allows for more combination of nitrogen and hydrogen to form more ammonia.