The following reaction occurs in the Blast furnace where iron ore is reduced to iron metal Fe2O3(s) + 3CO(g) Fe(l) + 3CO2(g) Using the Le Chatelier's principle, predict which one of the following will not disturb the equilibrium.
- Addition of CO2
- Removal of CO
- Addition of Fe2O3
- Removal of CO2
Answer
(3) Addition of Fe2O3
Solution
Kc = [CO2]3[CO]3 (pure solid Fe2O3 and liquid Fe are not in K)
∵ the concentration (activity) of a pure solid is constant ⇒ adding Fe2O3 does not change Q
(A), (B), (D): change [CO2] or [CO] ⇒ Q ≠ K ⇒ equilibrium shifts
Answer: (3)