Question

Which way will the equilibrium shift in the following equation if SO₂ is added?

2SO₃(g) + 45 kJ ↔ 2SO₂(g) + O₂(g)
A) To the left
B) To the right
C) It will not shift
D) It depends on temperature and pressure

Answer 1

If SO₂ is added to the reaction 2SO₃(g) + 45 kJ ↔ 2SO₂(g) + O₂(g), the equilibrium will shift to the right.

Step-by-step explanation:

If SO₂ is added to the reaction 2SO₃(g) + 45 kJ ↔ 2SO₂(g) + O₂(g), the equilibrium will shift to the right. This is because the addition of SO₂, which is a reactant, will disrupt the equilibrium and cause the reaction to proceed in the forward direction to consume the added SO₂ and restore the equilibrium. As a result, more products will be produced, shifting the equilibrium to the right.