Question

The reaction $${\mathrm{SO}}_3(g)+{\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}(l)⟶{\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{SO}}_4(aq)$$ is the last step in the commercial production of sulfuric acid. The enthalpy change for this reaction is $-227\mathrm{kJ}.$ In designing a sulfuric acid plant, is it necessary to provide for heating or cooling of the reaction mixture? Explain.

Short answer

In designing a sulfuric acid plant, there is no specific need to provide heating or cooling for the reaction mixture, as the reaction is exothermic, releasing heat to the surroundings and providing the necessary heat for the entire process. However, it is essential to consider safety guidelines and regulations to ensure that the generated heat doesn't pose any risks to equipment or personnel.

Step-by-step solution

Determine the temperature requirement of the reaction

The given reaction is the last step in the commercial production of sulfuric acid. We are not given any specific temperature requirement for the reaction to proceed. However, we will analyze the reaction based on the enthalpy change provided.

Analyze the enthalpy change value

The enthalpy change for the given reaction is -227 kJ. This negative value indicates that the reaction releases energy in the form of heat to the surroundings, and this type of reaction is considered exothermic.

Determine the necessity of heating or cooling

Because the reaction releases heat to the surroundings, and we are not given any particular temperature requirements for the reaction, we can assume that it doesn't require any additional source of heat or external cooling system unless there's a safety issue related to high operating temperatures. The reaction itself should provide the necessary heat for the entire process. Hence, there is no need to provide for specific heating or cooling of the reaction mixture in the sulfuric acid plant, but it is important to consider safety guidelines and regulations to ensure that the generated heat doesn't pose any risks to equipment or personnel.

Key concepts

Enthalpy

In chemical reactions, enthalpy is a measure of the total heat content in a system. It reflects the internal energy plus the capacity for a substance to do work through expansion. When observing enthalpy changes, scientists look at whether the system releases or absorbs energy during a reaction.
When the enthalpy change ($\mathrm{\Delta }H$ ) is negative, it means the reaction releases energy, which is typically in the form of heat. This is because the products of the reaction have less energy compared to the reactants.
In the case of the sulfuric acid production reaction (${\mathrm{SO}}_3(g)+{\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}(l)\to {\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{SO}}_4(aq)$), the enthalpy change is $-227\text{kJ}$. This indicates a significant release of energy during the reaction process. Understanding these changes helps in predicting the heat dynamics within chemical processes.

Exothermic Reaction

Exothermic reactions are characterized by the release of heat into the surroundings. This is because the energy required to initiate the reaction is less than the energy released by forming the product bonds.
In the scenario of producing sulfuric acid, the reaction of sulfur trioxide with water is highly exothermic, as evidenced by its negative enthalpy change of $-227\text{kJ}$.
For understanding exothermic reactions, consider the following:

• The energy is often in the form of heat, hence, increasing the temperature of the surroundings.
• The enthalpy change ($\mathrm{\Delta }H$ ) is negative, making them spontaneous in many cases.
• They are common in combustion processes and practical applications like heat packs and industrial chemical reactions.

Certain precautions are vital in industrial settings to safely harness the energy released from these reactions, such as controlling reaction rates and cooling systems to prevent overheating.

Sulfuric Acid Production

Sulfuric acid is one of the most widely produced chemicals globally, essential for various industrial applications. The production process typically involves several chemical reactions, with the final step being the formation of sulfuric acid from sulfur trioxide and water.
This final step is especially crucial because it is highly exothermic, releasing a large amount of energy, which must be managed carefully in an industrial setting to ensure safety.
In a sulfuric acid plant:

• The reaction between ${\mathrm{SO}}_3$ and ${\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}$ does not need external heating since it releases ample heat by itself.
  
• Safety protocols are crucial to handle the exothermic reaction safely, preventing equipment damage or safety hazards.
  
• Cooling systems might be implemented, not necessarily to support the reaction, but to keep the operational environment within safe temperatures.
  

The efficient production of sulfuric acid depends on effectively managing this exothermic process, balancing economic efficiency with rigorous safety standards.