Formation of Sulfur Trioxide

2SO2 + O2 → 2SO3

Aperçu

Sulfur dioxide reacts with oxygen to form sulfur trioxide in the Contact Process. This reversible reaction requires a vanadium pentoxide catalyst and temperatures around 400-450 C. It is the key step in sulfuric acid manufacturing.

Participants

Rôle Substance Coefficient État
Réactif Oxygen O 1 (g)
Réactif Sulfur Dioxide SO₂ 2 (g)
Produit Sulfur Trioxide SO₃ 2 (g)

Exemple du quotidien

This reaction occurring in the atmosphere from volcanic emissions or industrial pollution contributes to acid rain formation.

Importance industrielle

The Contact Process is the primary industrial method for producing sulfuric acid, the world's most produced chemical. Over 260 million tonnes of sulfuric acid are made annually using this reaction.

Propriétés

Type
Synthesis
Réversible
Oui
Énergie
Exothermique
ΔH
-198,2 kJ/mol
Catalyseur
Vanadium(V) oxide (V₂O₅)

Réactions associées

Formation of Calcium Hydroxide Formation of Carbon Monoxide Formation of Nitrogen Dioxide Formation of Potassium Chloride Formation of Sodium Bicarbonate Formation of Sodium Peroxide Formation of Silicon Dioxide Formation of Tungsten Carbide Formation of Copper(II) Sulfide Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Formation of Sulfur Trioxide?
The balanced equation is: 2SO₂ + O₂ → 2SO₃.
What type of reaction is Formation of Sulfur Trioxide?
Formation of Sulfur Trioxide is a synthesis reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.
Is Formation of Sulfur Trioxide exothermic or endothermic?
Formation of Sulfur Trioxide is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -198.2 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Formation of Sulfur Trioxide?
This reaction requires a catalyst (Vanadium(V) oxide (V₂O₅)).