What is Le Chatelier's Principle?

The principle states that, if any system in dynamic equilibrium is subjected to a change, a process will act to minimise the change to restore equilibrium.

 

These changes could be in concentrations, pressure or temperature. The following reaction can be used to demonstrate this:

N2(g) + 3H2(g) <-> 2NH3(g)     (exothermic)

1. Concentration: An increase in the concentration of a reactant will be countered by a shift in eqiulibrium to the right - the product side. This will remove reactant and so decrease the concentration again.

2. Pressure: An increase in total pressure will cause a shift in equilibrium to the right - the side with least moles of gas. As there are less moles of gas in the product, this will reduce the pressure again.

3. Temperature: A decrease in temperature will cause a shift in equilibrium to the right - the exothermic direction. As an exothermic reaction releases heat, this will increase the temperature to counter the original change.

Answered by Antonia M. Chemistry tutor

3903 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the effect of temperature on K(equilibrium constant)?


What is entropy?


i) Write a full balanced equation for (a) the complete combustion of glucose and (b) the incomplete combustion of glucose. ii) Following from part i) suggest a reason (and explain) the difference with the product in reaction (a) and that of reaction (b).


What is Gibbs free energy? How is it useful?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences