Describe how an increase in temperature affects the equilibrium of the main exothermic reaction of the Haber process?

Firstly you must recognize that the reaction that is referred to is the one where nitrogen combines with hydrogen to produce ammonia: N2 + 3H2 --> 2NH3. When talking about changing conditions to a system in equilibrium, one must refer to Le Chatelier's principle that states that if the conditions for a system in dynamic equilibrium changes, the equilibrium shifts to counteract this change. First let us deal with temperature. Your are told that the reaction is exothermic therefore the forward reaction produces heat. Hence if you increase the temperature the equilibrium will shift to the endothermic side (the left) in an attempt to decrease the temperature.

OM
Answered by Olavo M. Chemistry tutor

6960 Views

See similar Chemistry IB tutors

Related Chemistry IB answers

All answers ▸

Explain why the first ionization energy of sodium is less than that of magnesium?


What is the limiting reagent and thus the mass of product for the reaction: P4O10 + 6H2O --> 4H3PO4 if 5.00 g of P4O10 react with 1.50 g of water?


How does temperature affect the rate of reaction?


What is the name of the compound with the formula CH3CH2CH(OH)CH3, and what is the name of its functional group?


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