Reactions Involving Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) and Oxygen (O2): Volume Calculations

Understanding the reactions involving sulfur dioxide (SO2) and oxygen (O2) is crucial in chemical engineering and environmental chemistry. This article provides a detailed explanation of the stoichiometry involved, and specific volume calculations when these reactants combine to form sulfur trioxide (SO3) under ideal conditions. The reactions can be related to the formation of sulfuric acid, a significant industrial process, and other areas of ecological impact.

Chemical Reaction and Stoichiometry

The balanced chemical equation for the reaction between sulfur dioxide and oxygen to form sulfur trioxide is:

2 SO2 O2 → 2 SO3

From this equation, we can see the stoichiometry of the reaction. Two moles of sulfur dioxide (SO2) react with one mole of oxygen (O2) to produce two moles of sulfur trioxide (SO3) under optimal conditions.

Step-by-Step Analysis

To determine the volume of sulfur trioxide produced when 20 liters of sulfur dioxide reacts with 40 liters of oxygen, we can follow these steps:

Step 1: Determine the Limiting Reactant

According to the balanced equation:

2 volumes of SO2 react with 1 volume of O2

Given: 20 liters of SO2 and 40 liters of O2

Calculate the required volume of O2 for the 20 liters of SO2:

Required O2 (20 liters SO2) / 2 10 liters O2

Since we have 40 liters of O2 available, which is more than the 10 liters required, sulfur dioxide is the limiting reactant.

Step 2: Calculate the Volume of SO3 Produced

According to the balanced equation, 2 volumes of SO2 produce 2 volumes of SO3. Therefore, the volume of SO3 produced from 20 liters of SO2 is:

Volume of SO3 20 liters SO2

Consistent Volume Calculations

The volume of SO3 produced can be calculated by considering the initial and final gas volumes:

Initial volume (SO2 O2): 60 liters Final volume (SO3 remaining O2): 50 liters

Since 20 liters of SO2 react with 10 liters of O2, we have 30 liters of remaining O2. Therefore:

Total final volume: 20 liters (SO3) 30 liters (remaining O2) 50 liters

Verification of Stoichiometric Conditions

Verifying the stoichiometric solution, we calculate the initial and final volumes:

Initial volume before reaction: 20 liters (SO2) 40 liters (O2) 60 liters

Final volume after reaction: 0 liters (SO2) 30 liters (remaining O2) 20 liters (SO3) 50 liters

Thus, the volume of sulfur trioxide produced is 20 liters.

Conclusion

The volume of sulfur trioxide produced when 20 liters of sulfur dioxide reacts completely with 40 liters of oxygen is 20 liters. This calculation supports the stoichiometric principles and confirms the relationship between the given reactants and their product under ideal conditions.

Related Articles and Further Reading

For further reading on the chemical reactions involving sulfur dioxide, oxygen, and sulfur trioxide, consider exploring:

Environmental Impact of SO2 and SO3 Industrial Processes Involving H2SO4 Gas Stoichiometry Calculations

These articles will provide a deeper understanding of the practical applications and theoretical underpinnings of these chemical reactions.