Question

The reaction of iron(III) oxide with carbon monoxide occurs in a blast furnace when iron ore is reduced to iron metal:Fe2O3(s) + 3 CO(g) ⇌2 Fe(l) + 3 CO2(g)Use Le Ch telier’sprinciple to predict the direction of reaction when an equilibrium mixture is disturbed by

Answer 1

Fe2O3(s) + 3 CO(g) ⇌2 Fe(l) + 3 CO2(g)

According to Le Chatelier's principle change in concentration by changing the amount of reactant or product affect the equilibrium. However, the addition of solid reactant won't affect the concentration. Therefore, addition of solid Fe2O3​ will not disturb the equilibrium. Same for Fe(l). Adding CO disturbs the equilibrium to the right, CO2 - to the left. Removing CO - left, removing CO2 - right.