Question

One of the reactions in the manufacture of nitric(V) acid involves catalytic oxidation of ammonia as shown in the equation.
4NH₃(g)+ 5O₂(g) 4NO(g) + 6H₂O(g); ΔH=−909 kJmol⁻¹
The reaction is carried out at a pressure of 10 atmospheres and a temperature of 900°C

1. Other than nitric(V) acid, name another product that is formed. 
2. State and explain the effect on the position of equilibrium if the reaction is carried out.
   • at 10 atmospheres pressure and 450°C;      
   • at 900 °C and 20 atmospheres pressure;   
   • in the absence of a catalyst.   
3. State and explain the effect on the rate of the reaction if the reaction is carried out at 10 atmospheres and 450°C.  

Answer 1

1. Nitrons acid/HNO₂ 
   Nitric (III) Acid
2.   
   • Equilibrium shifts to the right, forward reaction is favoured since it is exothermic
   •   
     • Equilibrium shifts to the left
     • Backward reaction is favoured/favours the direction with fewer molecules/due decrease in number of mole/molecules
   • No effect
3. Rate of reaction decreases/reduces/slows
   decrease in temperature leads to reduction/decrease in kinetic energy of the molecules hence less effective collisions.