Question

consider the following reaction: co(g) + 3 h₂(g) ⇌ ch₄(g) + h₂o(g). if some of the methane ch₄ is removed from the mixture, the equilibrium gets disturbed and the concentrations of all the components starts changing in order to establish a new equilibrium. which statement correctly describes what is happening within the reaction mixture as it is trying to establish a new equilibrium? concentrations of all the reactants and products are not changing. concentrations of methane and water vapor are increasing. equilibrium is shifting to the left. concentrations of carbon monoxide and hydrogen are increasing.

Explanation:

To solve this, we use Le Chatelier's principle. When \( \text{CH}_4 \) (a product) is removed, the system will try to re - establish equilibrium by producing more products. So the reaction will shift to the right.

• Option 1: At equilibrium, concentrations are constant, but here the system is adjusting, so this is wrong.
• Option 2: Since we remove \( \text{CH}_4 \), the system will produce more \( \text{CH}_4 \) and \( \text{H}_2\text{O} \) (as the reaction shifts right) to re - establish equilibrium, so their concentrations will increase. This is correct.
• Option 3: Removing a product shifts the equilibrium to the right (to make more product), not left, so this is wrong.
• Option 4: When the reaction shifts right, reactants (\( \text{CO} \) and \( \text{H}_2 \)) are consumed, so their concentrations should decrease, not increase. So this is wrong.

Answer:

B. Concentrations of methane and water vapor are increasing.