Methanol, CH3OH, can be synthesized by combining carbon monoxide and hydrogen. C
ID: 516310 • Letter: M
Question
Methanol, CH3OH, can be synthesized by combining carbon monoxide and hydrogen. CO(g) + 2H2(g) CH3OH(g) H°rxn = -90.7 kJ
A reaction vessel contains these compounds at equilibrium. What effect will be seen when equilibrium is re-established after decreasing the temperature by 45°C?
All the partial pressures will decrease.
The partial pressure of methanol will decrease.
The partial pressures of hydrogen and methanol will decrease.
The partial pressure of hydrogen will increase.
The partial pressure of carbon monoxide will decrease.
Explanation / Answer
Forward reaction is exothermic in nature
we are decreasing temperature or removing heat here
so, according to Le Chatellier's principle,
equilibrium will move in direction which release heat
hence, forward reaction will be favoured
so,
partial pressure of CH3OH will increase
partial pressure of CO and H2 will decrease
Answer:
The partial pressure of carbon monoxide will decrease.