Given the reaction at equilibrium: N\(_2\)(g) + O\(_2\)(g) \(\iff\) 2NO(g), as the concentration of N...
Given the reaction at equilibrium: N\(_2\)(g) + O\(_2\)(g) \(\iff\) 2NO(g), as the concentration of N2(g) increases, the concentration of O(g) will
- A) decrease
- B) increase
- C) remains the same
- D) vanishes
Correct Answer: A) decrease
Explanation
When a reaction is at equilibrium, any change in the concentration of the reactants or products will cause the system to adjust itself in order to maintain equilibrium. This phenomenon is known as Le Chatelier's Principle.
In the given reaction, N\(_2\)(g) + O\(_2\)(g) \(\iff\) 2NO(g), as the concentration of N\(_2\)(g) increases, the equilibrium will shift to the right in order to consume the excess N\(_2\)(g). This means that more NO(g) will be produced, and more O\(_2\)(g) will be consumed.
As a result, the concentration of O\(_2\)(g) willdecrease in response to the increase in the concentration of N\(_2\)(g). This corresponds to Option A in the given question.
Le Chatelier's Principle is an important concept in understanding how systems at equilibrium respond to changes in concentration, temperature, or pressure. It helps us predict the behavior of reactions under different conditions, which is useful in a wide range of applications in chemistry.