The reaction pcl3(g)+cl2(g)←−→pcl5(g) has kp=0.0870 at 300 ∘c. a flask is charged with 0.50atmpcl3, 0.50atmcl2, and 0.20atmpcl5 at this temperature. part a use the reaction quotient to determine the direction the reaction must proceed in order to reach equilibrium.

Given, equilibrium constant  Kp = 0.0870

Pressure of PCl₃ = 0.50 atm

Pressure of Cl₂ =  0.50 atm

Pressure of PCl₅ = 0.20 atm

Reaction quotient, Q =  

Q = 0.8

Q > K, net reaction is to the left

Q= K, no net reaction

Q < K, net reaction is to the right

Q = 0.8  and Kp = 0.0870

Q is greater than K, so the net reaction is to the left or to the reactant side.

Therefore, the reaction must proceed to the left or to the reactant side in order to reach equilibrium.

the old alchemists made significant contributions to science even though there starting premises were off a bit. their conclusions after failure would steer them into better directions for investigation. science is no more than close observation and the initial mistakes result in rethinking and retrying experiments.