Answer to Question #152121 in Chemistry for Alexis

Question

At 1000K the value of Kp = .338 for the reaction 2SO3(g) ↔ 2SO2(g) + O2(g).

Calculate the value for Qp and predict the direction in which the reaction will proceed toward equilibrium if the initial pressures are PSO3 = 0.16 atm; PSO2 = 0.41 atm; PO2 = 2.5 atm.

Qp =

Direction? write either left or right =

Answer 1

Solution:

The balanced chemical equation:

2SO₃(g) ↔ 2SO₂(g) + O₂(g)

The equilibrium expression for the reaction system:

Using the equilibrium expression, find the reaction quotient (Q_p):

P_SO3 = 0.16 atm;

P_SO2 = 0.41 atm;

P_O2 = 2.5 atm.

Substitute the initial pressures into the equilibrium expression and solve for Q_p:

Let's compare the answer to the value for the equilibrium constant and predict the shift.

0.338 (K_p) < 16.416 (Q_p)

Since Q > K, the reverse reaction is favoured, the reaction moves from right to left, until equilibrium is established.

Answer:

• Q_p = 16.416
• left