The second step in the production of sulphuric acid(contact process) is given by the equation:
\(2SO_2 (g) + O_2(g) \rightleftharpoons 2SO_3(g)\)
Ideally, which conditions would increase the yield of this reaction?
Low temperature, high pressure
SO2+O2V2O5⇌2SO3+45Kcals
The given reaction is an exothermic reaction (heat is evolved). In principle (ideally speaking), the yield is decreased at high temperatures. Therefore, in this reaction lower temperatures and higher pressure favour the high yield of SO3(sulphur trioxide). All this is in accordance with Le Chatelier's principle.