Question

Consider the following equilibrium:

            CO_(g)   +   2H_2(g)   ⇌    CH₃OH_(g)   +   energy

Which of the factors below would decrease the concentration of CH₃OH at equilibrium?

	a.	a decrease in the temperature
	b.	an increase in the temperature
	c.	an addition of CO
	d.	an increase in H2

Answer 1

a)

Decreasing Temperature will shift the reaction in a direction which release heat as per Le chatelier Principle

Forward reaction is exothermic in nature

hence, forward reaction will be favoured

So, Equilibrium moves to product side

This would increase the concentration of CH3OH

b)

Increasing Temperature will shift the reaction in a direction which absorbs heat as per Le chatelier Principle

Forward reaction is exothermic in nature

hence, backward reaction will be favoured

So, Equilibrium moves to reactant side

This would decrease the concentration of CH3OH

c)

Adding reactant will shift the reaction in the direction of product as per Le chatelier Principle

So, Equilibrium moves to product side

This would increase the concentration of CH3OH

d)

Adding reactant will shift the reaction in the direction of product as per Le chatelier Principle

So, Equilibrium moves to product side

This would increase the concentration of CH3OH

Answer: b