Chemistry

6.9 - Changing the Position of Equilibrium

1 min

note 1 of 1

Choosing conditions for a reversible reaction

The conditions used in industrial reactions are a compromise between yield, rate, safety, and cost.

Very high pressure - Needs thicker, more expensive reaction vessels and pipework to contain safely, increasing equipment and maintenance costs.
Very high temperature - Requires large amounts of energy to reach and maintain, raising running costs and fuel consumption.

The chosen conditions must give an acceptable rate as well as an acceptable yield.
For an exothermic reaction, a lower temperature shifts equilibrium towards the products but makes the reaction too slow. A compromise temperature is used to balance yield and rate.

end of notes

Chemistry

1 min

note 1 of 1

The conditions used in industrial reactions are a compromise between yield, rate, safety, and cost.

Very high pressure - Needs thicker, more expensive reaction vessels and pipework to contain safely, increasing equipment and maintenance costs.
Very high temperature - Requires large amounts of energy to reach and maintain, raising running costs and fuel consumption.

The chosen conditions must give an acceptable rate as well as an acceptable yield.
For an exothermic reaction, a lower temperature shifts equilibrium towards the products but makes the reaction too slow. A compromise temperature is used to balance yield and rate.

end of notes