3.5 The production of ammonia Flashcards
If the temperature is increased, is the endothermic or exothermic reaction favoured?
Endothermic
What does the equilibrium seek to do when the temperature is decreased?
Increase the temperature
If the pressure is decreased, is the side with the least moles or most moles favoured?
The side with the most moles
What does the equilibrium seek to do when the pressure is increased?
Decrease the pressure
What is the difference between an open system and a closed system?
Substances can enter or leave an open system but cannot in a closed system
Does equilibrium happen in a closed system or an open system?
Closed system
When is a reaction said to have reached equilibrium?
When the rate of the forward reaction is equal to the rate of the backwards reaction
What is the balanced equation for the production of Ammonia?
N2 + 3H2 2NH3
What pressure does the Haber process happen under?
200 atm (200 x the pressure of the atmosphere)
Why doesn’t the process occur under higher pressure?
- For cost of the equipment needed to pump and maintain such a high pressure.
- For safety reasons: A high pressure is unsafe to maintain and can lead to serious incidents like explosions.
What type of reaction is the forwards reaction in the Haber Process?
Exothermic ( -ve Enthalpy)
Why doesn’t the reaction happen at a lower temperature?
To balance the rate of reaction with the yield of the reaction. More Ammonia would be made at a lower temperature, but the rate of reaction would be extremely slow due to a low temperature, so 450°’strikes a compromise.
What is the formula for ammonia?
NH3
How is the ammonia separated from the Nitrogen and Hydrogen?
It is cooled until liquefied and is run off and collected.
What is the catalyst used in the Haber process?
Iron catalyst
