Changing the pressure
3 marks · EasyConsider the following equilibrium, which is carried out in a sealed container:
State the number of gas molecules on the left and the right side of the equation.
State what will happen to the equilibrium position if the pressure is increased.
Give a reason for your answer to part (b).
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.
Show answer
(a) Left: 2, Right: 2
(b) There is no effect / No change to the position of equilibrium
(c) Because there are equal numbers of gas molecules on both sides, changing the pressure does not affect the equilibrium.
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · States numbers: 2 on left, 2 on right
B1 (b) · 1 mark · States that increasing pressure has no effect
B1 (c) · 1 mark · Gives a correct explanation based on equal gas molecules
Worked solution
(a) There are 2 gas molecules on both sides (left: 2X(g); right: Y(g) and Z(g)).
(b) Increasing the pressure has no effect on the equilibrium position.
(c) Because both sides have two gas molecules, the equilibrium is not affected by pressure.