Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · Nitrogen compounds

Nitrogen compounds — practice question

Burning fuels in motor vehicles, trains, aeroplanes and power stations releases the pollutant gas $\text{NO}_2$.
(a)[1]

Write an equation showing the formation of $\text{NO}_2$ in these situations.

(b(i))

By what method is $\text{NO}_2$ taken out of the exhaust gases from motor vehicles?

(b(ii))[2]

Write a balanced equation for this process.

(c)[1]

Suggest whether the amount of pollutant $\text{NO}_2$ produced would fall if fossil fuels were replaced with hydrogen as the fuel for combustion. Explain your answer.

(d(i))

In the atmosphere, $\text{NO}_2$ acts as a catalyst in the oxidation of $\text{SO}_2$ to $\text{SO}_3$.\n\n$\text{SO}_2(g) + \tfrac{1}{2}\text{O}_2(g) \xrightarrow{\text{NO}_2} \text{SO}_3(g)$\n\nWhat is the environmental importance of this reaction?

(d(ii))

The oxidation happens in two stages. The first reaction is the one between $\text{NO}_2$ and $\text{SO}_2$.\n\nreaction 1:\n\n$\text{NO}_2(g) + \text{SO}_2(g) \rightleftharpoons \text{NO}(g) + \text{SO}_3(g) \qquad \Delta H = -168\,\text{kJ mol}^{-1}$\n\nWrite an equation to show how the $\text{NO}_2$ is regenerated in the second stage of the oxidation.

(d(iii))

Write an expression for the equilibrium constant, $K_p$, for reaction 1, and state its units.

(d(iv))

If equal amounts of $\text{NO}_2(g)$ and $\text{SO}_2(g)$ are left to react at room temperature, it is found that $99.8\%$ of the gases have changed into products at equilibrium. Calculate a value for $K_p$.

(d(v))[7]

The temperature of the atmosphere falls with height. How will this change the position of the equilibrium in reaction 1? Explain your answer.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: $\ce{N2 + 2O2 -> 2NO2}$, or by way of $\ce{NO}$

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