Kp and Decomposition (Chemistry)

Thread starter rcrx
Start date Feb 7, 2010
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Chemistry Decomposition

In summary, Kp is an equilibrium constant for gaseous reactions that is calculated based on partial pressures. It differs from Kc, which is based on concentrations and can be used for both gaseous and aqueous reactions. The value of Kp can be affected by factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of a catalyst. Decomposition in chemistry refers to a reaction in which a compound breaks down into simpler substances, and the equilibrium constant, Kp, can be used to determine the extent of this reaction.

Feb 7, 2010

rcrx

For the reaction at 523K PCl5 (g) <-> PCl3 (g) + Cl2 (g) and Kp = 0.500

What percentage of PCl5(g) will decompose if 0.100 atm of PCl5(g) is placed in a closed vessel at 523K?

I am unsure of how to approach this problem, if anyone could give some insight I would greatly appreciate it.

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Feb 8, 2010

chemisttree

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Look at your definition of Kp. All will become apparent.

1. What is Kp in chemistry?

Kp, also known as the equilibrium constant for partial pressures, is a measure of the ratio of products to reactants at equilibrium for a gaseous reaction. It is calculated by taking the partial pressures of the products and dividing it by the partial pressures of the reactants.

2. How is Kp different from Kc?

Kp and Kc are both equilibrium constants, but they differ in the way they are calculated. Kp is based on partial pressures, while Kc is based on concentrations. Additionally, Kp can only be used for gaseous reactions, while Kc can be used for both gaseous and aqueous reactions.

3. What factors affect Kp?

The value of Kp can be affected by changes in temperature, pressure, and the concentrations of reactants and products. Additionally, the presence of a catalyst can also affect Kp, as it can increase the rate of the forward and reverse reactions, leading to a new equilibrium point.

4. What is decomposition in chemistry?

Decomposition refers to a chemical reaction in which a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler substances. This can happen through various mechanisms, including thermal decomposition, electrolytic decomposition, and photodecomposition.

5. How does decomposition relate to Kp?

In decomposition reactions, the reactant is often a single compound, and the products are the simpler substances that it breaks down into. The equilibrium constant, Kp, can be used to determine the ratio of these products at equilibrium, giving insight into the extent of the decomposition reaction.