Question

The following reaction occurs in the Blast furnace where iron ore is reduced to iron metal:
\(\text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3(s) + 3\text{CO}(g) \rightleftharpoons 2\text{Fe}(l) + 3\text{CO}_2(g)\)
Using Le Chatelier's principle, predict which one of the following will not disturb the equilibrium.

• A. Addition of \( \text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3 \)
• B. Addition of \( \text{CO}_2 \)
• C. Removal of \( \text{CO} \)
• D. Removal of \( \text{CO}_2 \)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Adding Fe₂O₃ will not disturb the equilibrium as it is a solid and its concentration does not appear in the equilibrium constant expression. Adding CO₂ or removing CO₂ will shift the equilibrium as per Le-Chatelier’s principle. Removing CO will also disturb the equilibrium by shifting it toward the reactants.

Thus, the correct answer is Option (1).

Answer 2

Step 1: Given equilibrium reaction
\[ \text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3(s) + 3\text{CO}(g) \rightleftharpoons 2\text{Fe}(l) + 3\text{CO}_2(g) \] This reaction occurs in the blast furnace, where carbon monoxide reduces ferric oxide to metallic iron.

Step 2: Apply Le Chatelier’s principle
Le Chatelier’s principle states that if a system at equilibrium is subjected to a change in temperature, pressure, or concentration, the system shifts in such a way as to counteract that change.

Step 3: Analyze each possible disturbance
1. Change in the amount of gases (CO or CO₂):
Adding or removing either CO or CO₂ will affect the equilibrium because these are gaseous reactant and product. Their partial pressures appear in the equilibrium constant expression.

2. Change in temperature:
Changing temperature will also shift the equilibrium (depending on whether the reaction is endothermic or exothermic).

3. Change in pressure:
Since both sides have 3 moles of gas (3CO ↔ 3CO₂), changing pressure will not shift equilibrium due to equal moles of gas on both sides.

4. Addition of a solid or liquid (Fe₂O₃ or Fe):
The concentrations of pure solids and liquids are constant and do not appear in the equilibrium expression. Therefore, adding or removing a solid or liquid component will not affect the equilibrium position.

Step 4: Conclusion
Adding more solid \( \text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3 \) will not disturb the equilibrium because solids do not affect the equilibrium composition of gases in the system.

Final answer

Addition of \( \text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3 \)