The equilibrium constant Kp for the reaction PCl51g2 ∆ PCl31g2 + ...

Question

The equilibrium constant Kp for the reaction PCl51g2 ∆ PCl31g2 + Cl21g2 is 3.81 * 102 at 600 K and 2.69 * 103 at 700 K.(b) How are the equilibrium amounts of reactants and products affected by (iii) addition of a catalyst?

Accepted Answer

Understand the role of a catalyst in a chemical reaction: A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. It works by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy.. Recognize that the catalyst does not affect the equilibrium position: Although a catalyst speeds up both the forward and reverse reactions, it does not change the concentrations of reactants and products at equilibrium.. Apply this understanding to the given reaction: For the reaction PCl5(g) ⇄ PCl3(g) + Cl2(g), adding a catalyst will increase the rate at which equilibrium is achieved, but it will not change the equilibrium constant (Kp) or the amounts of PCl5, PCl3, and Cl2 present at equilibrium.. Consider the effect of temperature separately: Since the equilibrium constant changes with temperature as shown in the problem statement, any changes in temperature would affect the equilibrium concentrations. However, this is independent of the effects of adding a catalyst.. Conclude the effect of a catalyst on the equilibrium amounts: In summary, the addition of a catalyst to the reaction involving PCl5, PCl3, and Cl2 will not alter the equilibrium amounts of these substances but will help the system reach its equilibrium state more quickly.

The equilibrium constant Kp for the reaction PCl51g2 ∆ PCl31g2 + Cl21g2 is 3.81 * 102 at 600 K and 2.69 * 103 at 700 K.(b) How are the equilibrium amounts of reactants and products affected by (iii) addition of a catalyst?

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

Key Concepts

Chemical Equilibrium

Equilibrium Constant (Kp)

Effect of Catalysts on Equilibrium