Methanol is a very important starting material in the chemical industry. A key reaction in its
manufacture is:
CO(g) + 2H2(g) ⇌ CH3OH(g) + 52 kJ
a) Write an expression for the equilibrium constant K
i) In an equilibrium mixture at 100°C the following gas concentrations were found:
CO : 3.76 x 10-3 mol L-1 H2: 4.30 x 10-3 mol L-1
CH3OH: 4.17 x 10-10 mol L-1
Calculate the value of K(eq) at 100°C
ii) Calculate the concentration of methanol produced by the reaction in (b), with the
following reactant concentrations:
CO: 2.13 x 10-3 mol L-1
H2: 1.4 x 10-3 mol L-1
b) Define Le Chatelier’s Principle
c) Explain the effect on the equilibrium concentration of methanol if the temperature
is raised
d) A safety valve in the reaction vessel is temporarily opened to release the high
pressure gasses. Describe the effect it has on the equilibrium position and the
equilibrium constant K
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