Question

The following reaction occurs in the Blast furnace where iron ore is reduced to iron metal:
$\text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3(s) + 3\text{CO}(g) \rightleftharpoons 2\text{Fe}(l) + 3\text{CO}_2(g)$
Using Le Chatelier's principle, predict which one of the following will not disturb the equilibrium.

• A. Addition of $\text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3$
• B. Addition of $\text{CO}_2$
• C. Removal of $\text{CO}$
• D. Removal of $\text{CO}_2$

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Addition of $\text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3$

Answer 2

Adding Fe2O3 will not disturb the equilibrium as it is a solid and its concentration does not appear in the equilibrium constant expression. Adding CO2 or removing CO2 will shift the equilibrium as per Le-Chatelier’s principle. Removing CO will also disturb the equilibrium by shifting it toward the reactants.

Thus, the correct answer is Option (1).