The position of equilibrium
2 marks · NormalState and explain what would happen to the position of equilibrium if the pressure is decreased for the following reaction in a sealed container:
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Also accept: The equilibrium shifts to the right, towards more gas molecules; more NO2 is formed.
Common mistakes: Not relating shift to number of moles of gas; Mixing up left/right
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Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · States equilibrium shifts to side with more gas molecules (right/NO2).
B2 · 1 mark · Explains this is to oppose the change (lower pressure favours more molecules).
Worked solution
The equilibrium shifts to the right (towards NO2), because this creates more gas molecules and counteracts the decrease in pressure.