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Refer to the figures labeled (C) and (D) - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 14 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 14
Refer to the figures labeled (C) and (D). 1. Explain how the yield of ammonia changes with pressure at different temperatures shown in curve (C). 2. Discuss the imp... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Refer to the figures labeled (C) and (D) - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 14 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain how the yield of ammonia changes with pressure at different temperatures shown in curve (C).
Answer
In curve (C), the yield of ammonia increases with pressure at all the given temperatures. As pressure rises from 100 to 400 atmospheres, the yield percentage of ammonia approaches its maximum limit. Higher temperatures tend to lower the yield slightly due to the exothermic nature of the reaction, but overall, increasing pressure continuously favors ammonia production.
Notably, at lower temperatures (e.g., 350°C), the yield increases rapidly with pressure, indicating a greater dependence on pressure for equilibrium formation. Conversely, at higher temperatures (e.g., 550°C), the rate of yield increase with pressure diminishes, reflecting the reaction's shift towards reactants.
Step 2
Discuss the implications of the data from curve (D) regarding lower temperatures.
Answer
Curve (D) depicts how the yield of ammonia significantly declines at temperatures below 350°C when subjected to various pressures. At lower temperatures, there is a notable reduction in yield, suggesting that the system is less favorable for the forward reaction of ammonia synthesis. This reflects Le Chatelier's principle; higher temperatures favor the formation of products in exothermic reactions, while decreased temperatures promote the reverse reaction. Thus, operating below this critical temperature can result in inefficient ammonia production, necessitating a balance between temperature and pressure to optimize yield.