Why is the Haber Process run at 450 °C instead of room temperature?

the forward reaction of the harbour process is exothermic, it gives out heat. so increasing temperature  will shift the equilibrium and decrease the yeild, however increasing the temperature also increases the rate of reaction.

All chemical processes have to compromise between  high rate and high yeild to give the most economical conditions. in this case the high rate turns out to be more economical so a high temerature is used. 

TF
Answered by Tom F. Chemistry tutor

12904 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe why NaCl has a high melting point


In fractional distillation the shorter hydrocarbons have lower boiling points and distil off first. Why?


Using the % yield calculation (please state), what is the percentage yield for the reaction of calcium oxide with water to produce calcium hydroxide if the theoretical yield is 4.0g but only 1.5g is produced?


Describe how and explain why vegetable oils are hardened for use in foods.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning