Consider the following equilibrium for the synthesis of sulfur trioxide: 2 SO ₂( g ) + O ₂( g ) 2 SO ₃( g ) H = -198 kJ mol ⁻¹ Which of the following conditions will favor the maximum yield of SO ₃ ? A. Lower temperature B. Higher temperature C. Higher pressure D. Addition of O ₂ Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Step-by-step solution

The given reaction is 2 SO ₂( g ) + O ₂( g ) 2 SO ₃( g ) with H = -198 kJ mol ⁻¹ . According to Le Chatelier's principle: The reaction is exothermic ( H The number of moles of gaseous reactants is 3 and gaseous products is 2 . Since the forward reaction proceeds with a decrease in the number of moles of gas, increasing the pressure shifts the equilibrium in the forward direction. Thus, condition C is correct. Adding a reactant ( O ₂ ) increases its concentration, which shifts the equilibrium in the forward directio