Chapter 18.3, Problem 28LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The explanation for whether a change in the pressure shifts the equilibrium in every reversible reaction is to be stated.

Concept Introduction: The reaction in which the rate of the forward reaction is equal to the rate of the backward reaction is called an equilibrium reaction.

Answer to Problem 28LC

No, a change in pressure cannot shift the equilibrium position in every reversible reaction.

Explanation of Solution

Le Chatelier’s principle states that if stress is applied to a system that is in dynamic equilibrium then the system changes in a way that relieves the stress.

The equilibrium system in which the reactants and products are in a gaseous state is affected by the change in pressure. A shift in the equilibrium occurs only when there is an unequal number of moles of gas on each side of the balanced chemical equation. If there are the same number of moles of gas on each side of the balanced chemical equation then there is no effect of change in pressure in the equilibrium system.

Therefore, no, a change in pressure cannot shift the equilibrium position in every reversible reaction.