The Haber Process Explained

• What is the harbour process used for?

  Industrial production of ammonia
• Why is the harbour process important?

  It produces ammonia for nitrogen-based fertilizers
• At what temperature is the harbour process conducted?

  450 degrees Celsius
• What pressure is used in the harbour process?

  200 atmospheres
• What role does the iron catalyst play in the harbour process?

  It speeds up the reaction without being consumed
• What percentage of air is nitrogen?

  78%
• How is hydrogen obtained for the harbour process?

  From hydrocarbons like methane
• What type of reaction is the harbour process?

  It is an exothermic and reversible reaction
• What happens to ammonia in the harbour process?

  It condenses into liquid ammonia
• Why is a condenser used in the harbour process?

  To cool and condense gaseous ammonia
• What are the conditions for the harbour process and their purposes?

  • Temperature: 450 degrees Celsius
  • Compromise between yield and reaction rate
  • Pressure: 200 atmospheres
  • High yield and reaction rate
  • Iron catalyst
  • Increases reaction speed
• Why is a low temperature favored in the harbour process?

  To favor the forward reaction and yield
• What is the trade-off of using a high temperature in the harbour process?

  Higher rate of reaction but lower yield
• Why is high pressure beneficial in the harbour process?

  It pushes equilibrium to produce more ammonia
• What limits the pressure in the harbour process?

  Cost and safety considerations
• What is a consequence of maintaining high pressure in the harbour process?

  It can be dangerous if something goes wrong
• What are the key factors to consider in the harbour process conditions?

  • Percentage yield
  • Rate of reaction
  • Practical considerations (cost and safety)