Question

2h₂o₂ ⇌ 2h₂o + o₂ if more o₂ is added, which direction will the equilibrium shift to reestablish the balance? hint: the shift should use up what is added. the equilibrium will shift randomly without a predictable direction. the equilibrium will shift to the left, forming more h₂o₂. the equilibrium will remain unchanged. the equilibrium will shift to the right, forming more h₂o and o₂.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall Le Chatelier's Principle

Le Chatelier's Principle states that if a stress (like changing concentration) is applied to a system at equilibrium, the system will shift in a direction to counteract that stress. Here, we added more \( O_2 \) (a product), so the system will try to use up the added \( O_2 \).

Step2: Determine the Shift Direction

To use up the added \( O_2 \), the reaction will shift to the left (reverse reaction), because the reverse reaction consumes \( O_2 \) and \( H_2O \) to form \( H_2O_2 \). So the equilibrium shifts left, forming more \( H_2O_2 \).

Answer:

The equilibrium will shift to the left, forming more \( H_2O_2 \).