Question

How does adding oxygen (O2) to this reaction change the equilibrium? 2SO2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2SO3(g) A. The equilibrium shifts right to produce more SO3 molecules. B. The equilibrium shifts left to produce more O2 molecules. C. The equilibrium shifts right because of decreased collisions between SO2 and O2 molecules. D. The equilibrium shifts left with an increase in SO2 and O2 molecules. E. The equilibrium shifts left because of increased collisions between SO2 and O2 molecules.

Answer 1

The equilibrium law or the Le Chatelier's principle states that when a system encounters a disturbance like a temperature, concentration, or pressure modifications, it will react to restore a new state of equilibrium.  

In the given case, adding reactant, that is, oxygen will shift the reaction in the direction of the product, on the basis of Le Chatelier's principle. Thus, the equilibrium will move toward the product side. So, the correct answer will be option A, that is, the equilibrium shifts right to produce more SO₃ molecules.