Equilibrium

Question 1

If temp increases and forward reaction is exothermic , explain the equilibrium shift

Answer 1

Kp decreases
System no longer is equilib
Ratio p(SO3)^2 / p(SO2)^2 x p(O2) is now greater than Kp
Equilib partial pressures must change to give w new Kp value
The partial pressure of the product SO3 must decrease
Partial pressures of reactants SO2 and O2 must increase
Position or equilib shifts towards reactants
New equilib will be reached where the ratio is equal to the new Kp value

Question 2

Explain the equilib shift in endothermic reactions

Answer 2

Kp increases
System no longer in equilib
Ratio is now less than Kp
Equilib partial pressures must change to give new Kp value
Partial pressure of product must increase
Partial pressures of reactants must decrease
Position of equilib shifts towards products
New equilib established where ratio is equal to new Kp value