Dynamic Equilibrium Flashcards

All 6 cards in this deck

What does it mean to say the Haber process reaches a dynamic equilibrium?

The forward and reverse reactions happen at the same rate, so the amounts of nitrogen, hydrogen and ammonia stay constant.

What does the symbol $\rightleftharpoons$ in the Haber process equation tell you?

The reaction is reversible — some ammonia breaks back down into nitrogen and hydrogen.

What effect does increasing the pressure have on the yield of ammonia in the Haber process?

It increases the yield — there are fewer gas molecules on the product side ($4 \rightarrow 2$), so equilibrium shifts to the right.

What effect does increasing the temperature have on the yield of ammonia in the Haber process?

It decreases the yield — the forward reaction is exothermic, so equilibrium shifts to the left.

True or false? Once the Haber process reaches equilibrium, both reactions have stopped.

False. Both the forward and reverse reactions carry on, but at the same rate.

True or false? At equilibrium in the Haber process there are equal amounts of reactants and products.

False. The amounts stay constant, but they are not necessarily equal.