For the reaction 2SO2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2SO3(g), what will happen if the temperature

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Question: For the reaction 2SO2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2SO3(g), what will happen if the temperature is decreased?

Options:

Correct Answer: Equilibrium shifts to the right

Solution:

Decreasing the temperature of an exothermic reaction will shift the equilibrium to the right, favoring the formation of SO3.

For the reaction 2SO2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2SO3(g), what will happen if the temperature is decreased?

For the reaction 2SO2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2SO3(g), what will happen if the temperature is decreased?

Step 1: Identify the reaction type. The reaction 2SO2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2SO3(g) is an exothermic reaction, meaning it releases heat.
Step 2: Understand Le Chatelier's Principle. This principle states that if a system at equilibrium is disturbed, it will shift in a direction that counteracts the disturbance.
Step 3: Recognize the disturbance. Decreasing the temperature is a disturbance to the system.
Step 4: Determine the effect of the temperature decrease. Since the reaction is exothermic, lowering the temperature will favor the side that produces heat.
Step 5: Identify which side produces heat. The formation of SO3 from SO2 and O2 releases heat, so the equilibrium will shift to the right to produce more SO3.
Step 6: Conclude the result. Therefore, decreasing the temperature will increase the formation of SO3.

Le Chatelier's Principle – This principle states that if a dynamic equilibrium is disturbed by changing the conditions, the position of equilibrium shifts to counteract the change.
Exothermic Reactions – In exothermic reactions, heat is released, and decreasing temperature will favor the formation of products.