This question is about reversible reactions and chemical equilibrium.
Acetylene (C2H2\text{C}_2\text{H}_2C2H2) is an important industrial chemical used in welding. It can be produced by the thermal cracking of methane (CH4\text{CH}_4CH4).
The equation for the reaction is:
2CH4(g)⇌C2H2(g)+3H2(g)2\text{CH}_4(\text{g}) \rightleftharpoons \text{C}_2\text{H}_2(\text{g}) + 3\text{H}_2(\text{g})2CH4(g)⇌C2H2(g)+3H2(g)
Calculate the atom economy for the formation of acetylene (C2H2\text{C}_2\text{H}_2C2H2) in this reaction.
Relative atomic masses (ArA_{\text{r}}Ar): H=1\text{H} = 1H=1, C=12\text{C} = 12C=12
Explain the effect of increasing the pressure on the equilibrium yield of acetylene. Give your answer in terms of equilibrium.