Halved volume with chemical equilibrium

In summary, the question asks for the pressure of a mixture of gases if the volume is halved. The answer is 1.88 atm, and the ideal gas law is applicable in this scenario. The equilibrium will shift to decrease the pressure, but it can only do so to a certain extent. It is important to have relevant knowledge on how to solve these types of problems.
  • #1
Walzf
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Homework Statement


The reaction is PCl5 (g) <=> PCl3 (g) + Cl2
In an unknow volume, the following mixture is balanced:
0.14 atm of PCl5
0.36 atm of PCl3
0.50 atm of Cl2

What would be the the pressure of the whole mixture if the volume would be halved?

(the answer is 1.88 atm)

Homework Equations


p1+p2+p3=1 atm
Kp=p3*p2/p1

The Attempt at a Solution


Since the answer is 1.88 atm I assumed the ideal gas laws aren't valid in this question because then the pressure would be 2 atm. I calculated Kp and it's 1.29 atm. But now I'm stuck.
 
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  • #2
1. If the ideal gas law isn't valid for this question, good luck then. Luckily, they are applicable. (Generally are, unless Van der waal's Gas is given.)

2. Since the system is disturbed, the equilibrium will shift so as to minimize the effect. Since the volume is halved or the pressure is doubled, the equilibrium will shift to decrease the pressure (Guess how?) But it can only do it to some extent.

Try gathering some relevant know-how on how to solve these types of problems (they are generally book illustrations).
 

1. What is chemical equilibrium?

Chemical equilibrium is a state in which the forward and reverse reactions occur at equal rates, resulting in no net change in the concentrations of reactants and products.

2. How does chemical equilibrium relate to halving the volume?

Halving the volume of a system at equilibrium will cause an increase in the concentration of both reactants and products. This change in concentration will alter the equilibrium and shift the reaction in the direction that minimizes the change in concentration.

3. What factors can affect the equilibrium constant when halving the volume?

The equilibrium constant is affected by changes in temperature, pressure, and concentrations of reactants and products. Halving the volume will change the concentrations and therefore can affect the equilibrium constant.

4. Can the equilibrium constant ever change when halving the volume?

No, the equilibrium constant is a constant value for a specific reaction at a specific temperature. Halving the volume may cause a shift in equilibrium, but the equilibrium constant itself will not change.

5. How can halving the volume be used to manipulate a chemical reaction?

Halving the volume can be used to shift the equilibrium of a reaction in a desired direction. This can be useful in industrial processes to increase the yield of a certain product or to favor a more efficient reaction pathway.

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