Many processes in the chemical industry involve reactions that form equilibrium mixtures. In this topic we look at some of the principles involved in using equilibrium reactions in an industrial context and explore some important examples of equilibria in industry.
After working through this topic you will be able to:
- understand the meaning of optimum conditions, percentage yield and atom economy in the context of chemical processes;
- apply the Equilibrium Law to help understand the conditions under which industrial processes operate;
- devise strategies that help students engage with industrial chemistry;
- appreciate what students find difficult about equilibria in industry; and
- help students overcome problems in learning about the chemical industry.