C6.1.3 - The Haber process

Question 1

What is the equation for the Haber process?

Answer 1

N2 (g) + 3H2 (g) ->

Question 2

What are the condition chosen usually for the Haber process?

Answer 2

• a pressure of 200 atmospheres (20MPa)
• a temperature of 450 C
• an iron catalyst

Question 3

Is the forward reaction of the Haber process exothermic or endothermic?

Answer 3

Exothermic

Question 4

Is the backward reaction of the Haber process exothermic or endothermic?

Answer 4

Endothermic

Question 5

Why is the temperature chosen for the Haber process a compromise?

Answer 5

It is low enough to achieve a reasonable equilibrium yield, but high enough yo achieve a reasonable rate of reaction. In addition the iron catalyst works more efficiently above 400C