Final answer:
To predict the direction in which the system will shift, the reaction quotient (Q) must be calculated using the initial concentrations and compared with the equilibrium constant (Kc). If Q is less than Kc, the reaction will shift towards products.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the direction in which the reaction will shift, we must compare the reaction quotient Q with the equilibrium constant Kc. The reaction quotient Q is calculated using the initial concentrations of reactants and products, while Kc is the constant value given for the reaction's equilibrium condition.
In the given reaction (4CuO(s) + CH4(g) ⇌ CO2(g) + 4 Cu(s) + 2 H2O(g) with Kc = 1.10), if Q is less than Kc, the reaction will shift in the direction of products to reach equilibrium. Conversely, if Q is greater than Kc, the reaction will shift in the direction of reactants.
The reaction will not necessarily shift in any direction just because one of the components (like CH4 or CO2) is present at a certain concentration. We need to calculate Q using the provided initial concentrations to predict the direction. The provided concentrations ([CH4] = 0.20 M, [CO2] = 0.70 M, [H2O] = 1.5 M) allow us to find Q and then compare it to Kc to answer the question.
Therefore, the statement The reaction will shift in the direction of products is correct if Q is less than Kc.