Question

Large quantities of hydrogen are needed for the synthesis of ammonia. One preparation of hydrogen involves the reaction between carbon monoxide and steam at 3.00 × 10² °C in the presence of a copper-zinc catalyst:

CO(g) + H₂O(g) ⇆ CO₂(g) + H₂(g)

Using the standard formation constant data in the table, calculate the equilibrium constant (K_P) for the reaction at 3.00 × 10² °C and the temperature at which the reaction favors the formation of CO and H₂O

Species	Δ H o f (kJ/mol)	Δ S o (J/mol · K)
CO(g)	−110.5	197.7
H2O(g)	−241.8	188.8
CO2(g)	−393.5	213.8
H2(g)	0	130.7

K_P =

T = K

Will a larger K_P be attained at the same temperature if a more efficient catalyst is used?

	yes
	no
	That cannot be known.

Answer 1