Ammonia is made by the Haber process.
$$\text{N}_2(g) + 3\text{H}_2(g) \rightleftharpoons 2\text{NH}_3(g) \quad \Delta H = -92 \text{ kJ/mol}$$
(a) State what is meant by a dynamic equilibrium. [2]
(b) Explain the effect of increasing the pressure on the yield of ammonia. [2]
(c) State the effect of increasing the temperature on the yield of ammonia. [1]
- (a) forward and reverse (backward) reactions occur at the same rate (reject 'reaction has stopped')(1)
- (a) concentrations (of reactants and products) remain constant / do not change (allow amounts constant; reject concentrations are equal)(1)
- (b) yield increases(1)
- (b) (position of) equilibrium shifts to the right / to the side with fewer (gas) molecules / 4 molecules → 2 molecules(1)
- (c) yield decreases (ignore reason)(1)
- Answer: (a) forward rate = reverse rate; concentrations constant (b) increases – fewer gas molecules on right (c) decreases
- Examiner tip: Say the CONCENTRATIONS stay constant — 'the amounts are equal' is wrong and loses the mark.