Question:

The gas phase reaction \(2\mathrm{NO_2(g)} \rightarrow \mathrm{N_2O_4(g)}\) is an exothermic reaction. The decomposition of \(\mathrm{N_2O_4}\), in equilibrium mixture of \(\mathrm{NO_2(g)}\) and \(\mathrm{N_2O_4(g)}\), can be increased by :

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Decomposition of N2O4 is the reverse (endothermic, mole-increasing) reaction; apply Le Chatelier's principle to each change.
Updated On: Nov 11, 2026
  • lowering the temperature.
  • increasing the pressure.
  • addition of an inert gas at constant volume.
  • addition of an inert gas at constant pressure.
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Forward: \(2\mathrm{NO_2} \rightleftharpoons \mathrm{N_2O_4}\), exothermic, 2 mol gas to 1 mol gas. Decomposition of \(\mathrm{N_2O_4}\) is the backward reaction (endothermic, mole-increasing).
(1) Lowering temperature favours the exothermic forward reaction, so decomposition decreases.
(2) Increasing pressure favours fewer moles, i.e. \(\mathrm{N_2O_4}\), so decomposition decreases.
(3) Inert gas at constant volume does not change partial pressures or concentrations, so no shift.
(4) Inert gas at constant pressure increases the volume, which lowers the partial pressures, so the equilibrium shifts to the side with more moles, i.e. decomposition of \(\mathrm{N_2O_4}\) increases.
Answer: (4) addition of an inert gas at constant pressure.
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