Answer:
The reaction will occur, in the forward direction, and NiO will be reduced to Ni
Explanation:
Step 1: Data given
Kp = 6.0 * 10²
Pressure of CO = 150 torr
Total pressure never exceeds 760 torr
Step 2: The balanced equation:
NiO(s) + CO(g) ⇆ Ni(s) + CO2(g)
Step 3: Calculate P(CO) and P(CO2)
For this equilibrium, the expression for Kp is:
Kp = P(CO2)/P(CO) = 6.0*10^2
(NiO and Ni are solids so do not change anything to the Kp
⇒ with P(CO) = 150 torr
⇒ P(CO) = 760 - 150 = 610 torr
Step 4: Calculate the reaction quotient
Q = 610/150 = 4.1
Q<<< Kp
There are more reactants than products. As a result, some of the reactants will become products, causing the reaction to shift to the right.
This means the reaction will proceed in the forward direction, and NiO will be reduced to Ni.