For the equilibrium system below, which of the following would result in an increase in the concentration of CO(g)?

Question

1. decreasing the temperature
2. adding a catalyst
3. decreasing [CH₃OH]
4. increasing the volume
5. increasing [H₂]

Answer 1

LeChatelier:

2H₂(g) + CO₂(g) <==> CH₃OH(g) + 92 kJ

1. decreasing the temperature - reduces CO₂
2. adding a catalyst - no effect on equilibrium concentrations only on rate
3. decreasing [CH₃OH] - reduces CO₂
4. increasing the volume - this will increase CO₂ since there are 3 mols gas on left and 1 mol gas on right
5. increasing [H₂] - reduces CO₂