The position of equilibrium
3 marks · EasyThe following reversible reaction occurs in a sealed container:
The forward reaction is exothermic.
State whether the position of equilibrium will move to the left or the right if the temperature is increased.
Explain your answer to part (a).
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
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(a) To the left
(b) Because increasing temperature favours the endothermic (reverse) reaction, so the equilibrium moves to the left to absorb heat.
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · States 'to the left' or 'left' (accepts 'towards SO2 and NO2') as the direction of the shift.
B1 (b) · 1 mark · Mentions that increasing temperature favours the endothermic (reverse) reaction.
B2 (b) · 1 mark · Links the shift to the reverse reaction trying to absorb added heat OR explains that the forward reaction is exothermic.
Worked solution
a) The equilibrium moves to the left.
b) Because increasing temperature favours the endothermic (reverse) reaction, so the equilibrium shifts left to absorb the added heat.