Haber process

• 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 in the condenser
• Why is a high pressure beneficial in the harbour process?

  It pushes the equilibrium to the right for yield
• What is the compromise temperature chosen for the harbour process?

  450 degrees Celsius for yield and rate
• What are the practical considerations for using high pressure?

  Cost and safety of maintaining high pressure
• How does temperature affect the percentage yield and rate of reaction in the harbour process?

  Low temperature favors yield, high favors rate
• Why is maintaining a high pressure in the harbour process expensive?

  It requires significant energy and safety measures
• What are the steps involved in the harbour process?

  1. Mix nitrogen and hydrogen in a reaction vessel.
  2. Maintain conditions at 450°C and 200 atmospheres.
  3. Use iron catalyst for the reaction.
  4. Ammonia forms and is separated by condensation.
  5. Unreacted nitrogen and hydrogen are recycled.
• What are the key factors influencing the conditions of the harbour process?

  • Percentage yield
  • Rate of reaction
  • Practical considerations (cost and safety)
• What are the characteristics of the ammonia produced in the harbour process?

  • Low boiling point
  • Can be condensed into liquid
  • Reversible reaction with nitrogen and hydrogen