Which direction would the equilibrium move if the pressure at which a reaction takes place was increased? (Le Chatelier's Principle)

Looking at the reaction between hydrogen and carbon monoxide to form methanol:

CO + 2 H2 ⇌ CH3OH

There are 3 moles on the left hand side and 1 mole on the right hand side.

According to Le Chatelier's Principle the equilibrium will move in the direction of less molecules to counteract the increase in pressure.

Therefore, an increase in pressure in this reaction will lead to an increase in methanol being produced, hence, the equilibrium is moving to the  right.

EC
Answered by Ethan C. Chemistry tutor

4144 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What are moles and how do you use them?


What is Le Chatelier's Principle?


What is Fractional Distillation and how does it work?


NaOH has a high melting point and conducts electricity in solution. H2O has a low melting point and does not conduct electricity. Explain, using the structure of each, why this is the case.


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