1. Le Chatelier's Principle
Applications of
Le Chatelier's Principle
There are significantly more examples of the use of this principle then shown here – these three are just some common and universally understood examples.

2. Include: Interpret concentration versus time graphs.
OUTCOME QUESTION(S):
C LeCHATELIER’S PRINCIPLE
Use Le Chatelier’s principle to predict and explain shifts in equilibrium.
Include: Interpret concentration versus time
graphs.
Describe some practical applications of Le Chatelier’s principle.
Vocabulary & Concepts

3. Rechargeable Batteries
Lead-acid
PbO2 + Pb H SO PbSO H2O + energy
Nickel-cadmium
Cd NiO(OH) H2O Ni(OH) + Cd(OH)2 + energy
Electrical energy (like heat) is written into the equation
Appliance – no energy – forward reaction favored
energy released to run appliance
Charger (outlet) – HIGH energy – reverse favored
re-forms reactants, storing energy for use

4. Hb (aq) + O2 (g) HbO2 (aq) Oxygen and The Lungs
Haemoglobin (Hb) is a red-blood cell protein used to transport O2 from the lungs to body tissue
Lungs – [O2] is high – forward reaction favored
haemoglobin in the blood binds oxygen
Tissue – [O2] is low – reverse reaction favored
haemoglobin releases oxygen to the cells

5. Carbon Dioxide and The Lungs
H2O(l) + CO2 (g) H2CO3 (aq)
Water is a major component in our blood
Tissue – [CO2] is high – forward reaction favored
CO2 waste carried from cells as carbonic acid
Lungs – [CO2] is low – reverse reaction favored
carbonic acid decomposes releasing waste CO2

6. Carbon Dioxide and Blood pH
H2CO3
H2O(l) HCO3-(aq) + H+(aq)
CO2 (g)
acidic
The normal pH of blood is anything above 7.8 or below 6.8 can result in death
Acidic – [H+] is high – reverse reaction favored
exercise creates acids which are neutralized by carbonate ions and then expelled as CO2
(breath harder)
Basic – [H+] is low – forward reaction favored
carbonic acid is created and decomposes to release H+ to offset the alkalinity of the blood

7. Include: Interpret concentration versus time graphs.
CAN YOU / HAVE YOU?
C LeCHATELIER’S PRINCIPLE
Use Le Chatelier’s principle to predict and explain shifts in equilibrium.
Include: Interpret concentration versus time
graphs.
Describe some practical applications of Le Chatelier’s principle.
Vocabulary & Concepts