Solving the Chemistry Mystery: 2NO2 <---> N2O2

In summary, the conversation discusses a question about equilibrium in a chemical reaction and how increasing pressure can affect the forward and reverse reaction rates. The question asks for a comparison between the initial equilibrium state and the new equilibrium state after increasing pressure. The general consensus is that both the forward and reverse reaction rates will increase in the new equilibrium state, but the exact incremental increase needs to be determined.
  • #1
mikeyman2010
18
0
Hi, I know this is a physics/math forum, but I'd really like some help on this equilibrium question. :frown:

Consider this reaction:

2NO2 <---> N2O2

If I increase the pressure, then the system will shift to the right, and thus the forward reaction rate will increase. After awhile, a new state of equilibrium is reached, in which the forward and reaction rate will become equal again. However, the question asks me to compare the forward/reverse reaction rates of the new equilibrium system vs the initial equilibrium. Are they supposed to be increased, decreased, or stayed the same?

I have a shrewd idea, but not quite sure. Since the pressure is increased, then the concentration is increased for BOTH the reactant, and the product. then, both the forward and reverse reactions should be faster than the previous equilibrium state in the new one. Can anyone clarify or elaborate on this? Any help or idea is greatly appreciated. :smile:
 
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  • #2
First off, you can post in the chemistry subforum here at PF

Both the forward and reverse reaction rates increase, you'll just need to figure out the incremental increase of each rate relative to their initial
 
  • #3


Hi there! No problem, I'm happy to help with this chemistry question.

You are correct in your thinking that increasing the pressure will shift the equilibrium to the right, since there are more moles of gas on the right side of the equation. This means that the forward reaction will occur at a faster rate, as there are more molecules available to react.

When a new equilibrium is reached, both the forward and reverse reaction rates will have increased compared to the initial equilibrium. This is because, as you mentioned, the concentrations of both the reactant and product have increased. This means that there are more molecules colliding and reacting, leading to an increase in both rates.

It's important to note that while both rates have increased, they will still be equal at the new equilibrium. This is because the system has adjusted to the new conditions and reached a new balance between the forward and reverse reactions.

I hope this helps clarify things for you. Good luck with your studies! 🙂
 

What is the chemistry behind the reaction 2NO2 <-> N2O2?

The reaction 2NO2 <-> N2O2 is a reversible reaction known as the dimerization of nitrogen dioxide. It involves the combination of two molecules of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) to form one molecule of dinitrogen tetroxide (N2O2).

What factors affect the equilibrium of the reaction 2NO2 <-> N2O2?

The equilibrium of the reaction 2NO2 <-> N2O2 can be affected by temperature, pressure, and the concentrations of reactants and products. Increasing the temperature and pressure can shift the equilibrium towards the products, while increasing the concentrations of reactants can shift the equilibrium towards the reactants.

What is Le Chatelier's principle and how does it apply to the reaction 2NO2 <-> N2O2?

Le Chatelier's principle states that when a system at equilibrium is subjected to a stress, it will shift in a direction that minimizes the stress. In the reaction 2NO2 <-> N2O2, if the concentration of NO2 is increased, the equilibrium will shift towards the products (N2O2) to minimize the stress caused by the increase in reactant concentration.

How can the equilibrium constant (Kc) be used to determine the direction of the reaction 2NO2 <-> N2O2?

The equilibrium constant (Kc) is a measure of the ratio of products to reactants at equilibrium. If the value of Kc is greater than 1, the equilibrium lies towards the products, and if it is less than 1, the equilibrium lies towards the reactants. Therefore, by calculating the value of Kc, we can determine the direction of the reaction 2NO2 <-> N2O2.

How is the reaction 2NO2 <-> N2O2 important in industrial processes?

The reaction 2NO2 <-> N2O2 is important in industrial processes such as the production of nitric acid, which is used in the production of fertilizers, explosives, and other chemicals. It is also a key step in the formation of acid rain, which can have detrimental effects on the environment.

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