Question

How is Le Châtelier's principle involved in the production of elemental potassium?

Short answer

The potassium formed as the product is removed. According to Le Chatelier's principle, as the gaseous metal leaves the cell, the system shifts towards forming more K.

Step-by-step solution

Le Chatelier's principle

Suppose a system in equilibrium is disturbed by changes in concentration, temperature, volume, or pressure; then, according to Le Chatlier's principle, the equilibrium will shift in such a direction that it nullifies the change.

Explanation

The molten sodium reduces the molten potassium salt. Sodium is not a good reducing agent for the most active potassium. However, potassium is reduced above its boiling point, resulting in gaseous potassium.

${\text{Na}}_{\text{(l)}}{{\text{+K}}^{\text{+}}}_{\text{(l)}}\rightleftharpoons {\text{Na}}_{\text{(l)}}^{\text{+}}{\text{+K}}_{\text{(g)}}$

Potassium is removed as it is produced. Le Chatelier's principle states that the system shifts towards forming more K as the gaseous metal leaves the cell.