Problem: An engineer examining the oxidation of SO 2 in the manufacture of sulfuric acid determines that Kc = 1.7 x 108 at 600 K: 2SO2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2SO3(g) (a) At equilibrium, PSO3 = 300. atm and PO2 = 100. atm. Calculate PSO2. 

🤓 Based on our data, we think this question is relevant for Professor Randles' class at UCF.

FREE Expert Solution

When dealing with equilibrium:

• Kc → equilibrium units are in molarity 
• Kp → equilibrium units in terms of pressure


Kp and Kc are related to one another by the following equation below: 

Kp=KcRT∆n


Reaction:

2SO2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2SO3(g)

reactants = 3 moles gas

products = 2 moles gas


Δn = 2 mol – 3 mol
Δn = -2


Kp=KcRT∆nKp=1.7×1080.08206600-2Kp=1.7×1084.13×10-4

Kp = 7.0 x 104


View Complete Written Solution
Problem Details

An engineer examining the oxidation of SO 2 in the manufacture of sulfuric acid determines that Kc = 1.7 x 108 at 600 K: 

2SO2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2SO3(g) 

(a) At equilibrium, PSO3 = 300. atm and PO2 = 100. atm. Calculate PSO2. 

Learn this topic by watchingEquilibrium Expressions Concept Videos
All Chemistry Practice Problems Equilibrium Expressions Practice Problems
Q.The methane used to obtain H2 for NH3 manufacture is impure and usually contains other hydrocarbons, such as propane, C3H8. Imagine the reaction of pr...
Q.Glauber’s salt, Na2SO4·10H2O, was used by J. R. Glauber in the 17 th century as a medicinal agent. At 25°C, Kp = 4.08×10−25 for the loss of waters of ...
Q.For the following reaction, Kp = 0.262 at 1000°C: C(s) + 2H2(g) ⥫⥬ CH4(g)At equilibrium, PH2 is 1.22 atm. What is the equilibrium partial pressure of ...
Q.You are a member of a research team of chemists discussing plans for a plant to produce ammonia:   N2(g) + 3H2(g) ⇌ 2NH3(g)(a) The plant will operate ...
See all problems in Equilibrium Expressions

Frequently Asked Questions

What scientific concept do you need to know in order to solve this problem?

Our tutors have indicated that to solve this problem you will need to apply the Equilibrium Expressions concept. If you need more Equilibrium Expressions practice, you can also practice Equilibrium Expressions practice problems.

What professor is this problem relevant for?

Based on our data, we think this problem is relevant for Professor Randles' class at UCF.

What textbook is this problem found in?

Our data indicates that this problem or a close variation was asked in Chemistry: The Molecular Nature of Matter and Change - Silberberg 8th Edition. You can also practice Chemistry: The Molecular Nature of Matter and Change - Silberberg 8th Edition practice problems.