Why is the Harber process performed at higher temperatures rather than low?

The forward reaction in the Harber process is exothermic. Following Le Chatelier's principle, the reaction would therefore be favoured by using lower temperatures, increasing the yield of ammonia at equilibrium. However, decreasing the temperature would lower the rate of reaction, slowing the production of ammonia. Therefore a higher compromise temperature is used to make the production of ammonia feasible; low enough to obtain a good yield of ammonia but high enough to maintain a reasonable rate of reaction.

TM
Answered by Thomas M. Chemistry tutor

4891 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does the reducing ability of halide ions vary?


Part 2: from the empirical formula, calculate the molecular formula if the molecular weight of the substance is 180 g/mol


Why does ionisation energy increase across a period?


Rank the following acids according to acid strength, strongest to weakest: HF, HCl, HBr. Explain your reasoning.


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