Question

In the reaction `N_2 + 3H_2 -> 2NH_3`, what volume of ammonia is produced when 5.0 L of Nitrogen react?

Answer 1

We follow the stoichiometry.........`10*L` of ammonia will result.

Explanation:

The stoichiometrically balanced equation, which you have written is:

`N_2(g)+3H_2(g) rightleftharpoons 2NH_3(g)`

Given constant temperature and pressure, which we must assume, volume is proportional to the number of moles. And thus if `5.0*L` of dinitrogen react (with `15.0*L` of dihydrogen), `10.0*L` of ammonia gas will result.

Of course, practically, we will get nothing like quantitative reaction, and the reaction is an equilibrium that must be manipulated. The one thing this reaction has got going for it is that the product, the ammonia, is condensable, and highly soluble in water, whereas the reactants are quite volatile gases.

Dinitrogen reduction is regarded as the most important reaction performed on the planet. Why?