In the reaction CO(g) + 2H2(g) <--> CH3OH(g), explain why an increase in pressure increases the yield of methanol

Increasing the pressure shifts equilibrium towards the side with fewer moles of gas, so in this reaction the equilibrium will move to the right. Hence, a shift towards the right hand side will increase the yield of methanol.
The equilibrium shifts towards the side with fewer moles of gas because the rate of reaction of the left hand side (the one with more moles of gas) is increased more than the rate of reaction of the right hand side (due to more frequent collisions per second).

Answered by Chemistry tutor

12834 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why can there be one major product and one minor product after electrophilic addition takes place across a double bond?


What is entropy and how is it used in chemistry?


State what is meant by the term structural isomer?


Why are transition metal complexes coloured?


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning