Question

In the reaction N₂(g) + 3H₂(g) → 2NH₃(g), what is the role of N₂?

1) Reactant
2) Product
3) Catalyst
4) Intermediate

Answer 1

In the chemical reaction N2(g) + 3H2(g) → 2NH3(g), N2 acts as a reactant. The reaction shifts in response to changes in reactant or product concentration as per Le Châtelier's Principle, to minimize the impact of the change.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the reaction N2(g) + 3H2(g) → 2NH3(g), N2 serves as a reactant. It is a substance that is consumed during the reaction to form the product, ammonia (NH3). The role of nitrogen (N2) in this context cannot be a product, catalyst, or intermediate. When the equilibrium of this reaction is stressed, such as by changing the concentrations of reactants or products, the reaction will shift to counteract the change, according to Le Châtelier's Principle:

1. If H2 is added, the reaction shifts toward the products to reduce the added H2.
2. If NH3 is added, the reaction shifts toward the reactants to reduce the added NH3.
3. If NH3 is removed, the reaction shifts toward the products to replace the removed NH3.

The coefficients in the balanced equation indicate the stoichiometry of the reaction, showing that one mole of N2 reacts with three moles of H2 to form two moles of NH3.