Which direction would the equilibrium move if the pressure at which a reaction takes place was increased? (Le Chatelier's Principle)

Looking at the reaction between hydrogen and carbon monoxide to form methanol:

CO + 2 H2 ⇌ CH3OH

There are 3 moles on the left hand side and 1 mole on the right hand side.

According to Le Chatelier's Principle the equilibrium will move in the direction of less molecules to counteract the increase in pressure.

Therefore, an increase in pressure in this reaction will lead to an increase in methanol being produced, hence, the equilibrium is moving to the  right.

Answered by Ethan C. Chemistry tutor

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