Physical Chemistry: Chemical Equlibrium

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a homework problem related to chemical equilibrium, specifically focusing on the reaction 2SO3(g) → 2SO2(g) + O2(g). Participants are attempting to determine the equilibrium constant (K) and the standard Gibbs free energy change (ΔG°) at a given temperature based on provided ratios of reactants and products at equilibrium.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about how to find the equilibrium constant K, suggesting that partial pressures may be needed but is unsure how to calculate them.
  • Another participant asks for the total number of moles of SO2 and SO3 to facilitate the calculation of individual moles based on the given ratio.
  • A participant proposes specific values for moles of SO2 and SO3 at equilibrium but later checks the ratio and finds it does not match the given ratio of 0.663.
  • There is a repeated emphasis on the need to calculate the number of moles correctly to achieve the specified ratio, with participants expressing frustration over their calculations not yielding the expected results.
  • Participants inquire about the equations used to derive the molar amounts, indicating a search for clarification on the methodology employed in the calculations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the correct approach to calculating the equilibrium constant or the moles of reactants and products. Multiple competing views and methods are presented, but the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the participants' calculations, including potential missing assumptions about the initial conditions and the dependence on the correct application of equilibrium expressions. The discussion reflects uncertainty regarding the correct equations and methods to use.

jamesrb
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Homework Statement


For the reaction:
2SO3(g) →2SO2(g)+O2(g)
when 2.00 mol of SO3 is added to a flask at 10.0 L and 350 K at fixed volume, at equilibrium the ratio of SO2:SO3 is 0.663. What is the values of the equilibrium constant? What is ΔG° at this temperature?

Homework Equations


ΔrxnG°=-RTlnK

The Attempt at a Solution


I cannot figure out how to find K. I'm thinking I need to find the partial pressures of the various gases in order to get it but I cannot see how to do that.
 
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How many moles of SO2 and SO3 together? Knowing how many moles in total and the ratio, can you calculate number of moles of each?
 
Well if we used 2.00 moles of SO2 to start then:
1.326 moles of SO2
0.674 moles of SO3
at equilibrium
 
Simple check:

\frac {1.326}{0.674} \neq 0.663
 
Borek said:
Knowing how many moles in total and the ratio, can you calculate number of moles of each?
I though I could but nothing I can come up with gives me a ratio of 0.663 :mad:
 
jamesrb said:
I though I could but nothing I can come up with gives me a ratio of 0.663 :mad:
What equation did you use to get the molar amounts?

Chet
 
Chestermiller said:
What equation did you use

I would ask "what equations" (and that's an important hint).
 

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