Adding a catalyst
2 marks · EasyIn a reversible reaction at equilibrium, the rate of the forward reaction is 0.6 mol/dm³/s and the rate of the reverse reaction is also 0.6 mol/dm³/s. A catalyst is added and both rates are increased by a factor of 5.
Calculate the new rate of the forward reaction, and state whether the position of equilibrium will change.
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New forward rate: 3.0 mol/dm³/s. The position of equilibrium will not change.
Common mistakes: Saying equilibrium position changes
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · Multiplies the initial rate (0.6) by the factor (5).
A1 · 1 mark · Correctly gives the new forward rate (3.0 mol/dm³/s) and states the position of equilibrium remains unchanged.
Worked solution
The new forward rate is 3.0 mol/dm³/s. Since both forward and reverse rates are increased by the same factor, the position of equilibrium will not change.