Answer to Question #111082 in Chemistry for Rosa

Question

In the following equation, what will happen to the concentration of H2SO3 if extra MgSO3 is added? MgSO3(s) + H2O (l)àH2SO3 (aq) + MgO (aq)

Answer 1

In the reaction

MgSO₃(s) + H₂O (l) $\rightarrow$ H₂SO₃ (aq) + MgO (aq),

MgSO₃ is a reactant. Therefore, according to the Le Chatelier's principle, the increase in its concentration will shift the reaction equilibrium to the right, so that the concentration of MgSO₃ decreases again (the position of equilibrium will counteract this change in concentration). Therefore, the concentration of H₂SO₃ will increase: none of it is lost and more is being generated.

Answer: The concentration of H₂SO₃ will increase if extra MgSO₃ is added.