Physical Chemistry #22: Applications of Chemical Equilibria (Slides and Student Led Tasks)

In this lesson we discuss calculations with equilibrium constants using the ‘RICE table’ method and how equilibria can effect industrial chemical production, specifically in the Haber process and the Contact process. This is lesson twenty two in our physical chemistry series for Unit 7: Equilibria (from the Cambridge International AS Chemistry Curriculum (9701) 2019-2021 curriculum).

LESSON OBJECTIVE: Apply the concepts of equilibria and equilibrium constants to laboratory procedures, including industrially with the Haber and Contact processes.

LEARNING OUTCOMES (taken from the Cambridge International AS and A Level Chemistry (9701) 2019-2021 curriculum):
7.1 Chemical equilibria: reversible reactions, dynamic equilibrium
f) calculate the quantities present at equilibrium, given appropriate data (such calculations will not require the solving of quadratic equations)

g) describe and explain the conditions used in the Haber process and the Contact process, as examples of the importance of an understanding of chemical equilibrium in the chemical industry