Final answer:
The continuous removal of ammonia in the industrial synthesis of ammonia drives the reaction forward because of Le Châtelier's principle, which causes the system to produce more ammonia to counteract the reduction in product concentration.
Step-by-step explanation:
In industrial use, such as in the Haber-Bosch process for the production of ammonia (NH3), the continuous removal of ammonia from the reaction mixture drives Reaction 1 because of Le Châtelier's principle. This principle states that if there is a change in the conditions of a reversible reaction at equilibrium, the system will adjust itself to counteract the change. In the case of the synthesis of ammonia, high pressures are applied to shift the equilibrium towards the right, favoring the formation of ammonia. By continuously removing ammonia, the concentration of this product is reduced, which according to Le Châtelier's principle, causes the equilibrium to shift towards the production of more ammonia to replenish it.
To practicalize an industrial process and give a large yield of product such as ammonia, one method is to increase the pressure on the system. This increases the yield by again shifting the equilibrium towards the production of ammonia. Despite changes in concentration, pressure, and temperature, it is important to note that a catalyst does not alter the equilibrium position, but instead accelerates the rate at which equilibrium is achieved.