Question

The atmosphere consists of about \(80 \% \mathrm{~N}_{2}\) and \(20 \% \mathrm{O}_{2}\), yet there are many oxides of nitrogen that are stable and can be isolated in the laboratory. (a) Is the atmosphere at chemical equilibrium with respect to forming NO? (b) If not, why doesn't NO form? If so, how is it that \(\mathrm{NO}\) can be made and kept in the laboratory for long periods?

Short answer

The atmosphere is not at chemical equilibrium for NO formation due to insufficient energy. NO can be made in the lab under specific conditions.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Composition of the Atmosphere

The atmosphere is composed of approximately 80% nitrogen ( _2) and 20% oxygen ( _2). We need to assess whether these gases spontaneously react to form nitrogen monoxide ( 0) under atmospheric conditions.

Assess Chemical Equilibrium for NO Formation

Chemical equilibrium involving the formation of NO from _2 and _2 can be represented by the reaction \[ \text{N}_2 + \text{O}_2 \rightleftharpoons 2\text{NO} \]. We consider the conditions under which this reaction might reach equilibrium under normal atmospheric conditions.

Consider the Energetics of NO Formation

Forming NO from N_2 and O_2 is an endothermic reaction, requiring a significant amount of energy (or heat) to proceed left to right. In typical atmospheric conditions, the temperature is not high enough to supply the necessary energy, so NO formation is unfavorable in the atmosphere.

Explain the Stability of NO in the Laboratory

When formed under controlled conditions, such as high temperature or with a catalyst, NO can be isolated and stabilized in the laboratory. Laboratory conditions can prevent interactions that might lead NO to decompose or react further, thereby maintaining its stability.

Conclusion

The atmosphere is not in chemical equilibrium regarding the formation of NO because atmospheric temperature is too low to provide the necessary energy for the reaction. NO does not form naturally in significant quantities in the atmosphere, but it can be synthesized under controlled laboratory conditions where it remains stable.

Key concepts

Nitrogen Oxides

Nitrogen oxides are a group of gases that consist of nitrogen and oxygen. One of the most common forms is nitrogen monoxide (NO), which can further form nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) in the atmosphere. These gases are part of a family collectively known as nitrogen oxides (NOx).
In the atmosphere, nitrogen oxides can result from various sources, including natural phenomena such as lightning and human activities like burning fossil fuels. Understanding the formation and reactivity of these compounds is crucial in fields like atmospheric chemistry and environmental science.

• NO is a colorless gas that quickly reacts with oxygen to form NO₂.
• NO₂ is a reddish-brown gas and contributes significantly to air pollution and acid rain.

Laboratory techniques allow scientists to isolate and study nitrogen oxides under controlled conditions. This understanding helps in analyzing their roles in the environment and devising strategies to mitigate their impact.

Endothermic Reactions

Endothermic reactions are chemical reactions that absorb energy from their surroundings. This energy is often in the form of heat. For example, while forming nitrogen monoxide (NO) from nitrogen and oxygen, the reaction \[ \text{N}_2 + \text{O}_2 \rightleftharpoons 2\text{NO} \] requires a substantial amount of energy to proceed. Under typical atmospheric conditions, this energy requirement is not met.
This lack of available energy in the environment means that endothermic reactions like NO formation naturally are infrequent.

• Endothermic reactions lead to products that have higher energy than reactants.
• They often require external energy, like heat, to proceed.

High temperatures or catalysts in laboratory settings can provide the required energy, making it possible to produce and study NO without the constraints present in the atmosphere.

Atmospheric Chemistry

Atmospheric chemistry is the study of the chemical processes that occur in the Earth's atmosphere. It plays a key role in understanding air pollution, climate change, and ozone depletion. One significant aspect of atmospheric chemistry is the study of nitrogen oxides.
Atmospheric chemistry involves examining how these nitrogen oxides interact with other compounds and influence environmental conditions. The formation of nitrogen oxides under specific conditions and their interactions influence air quality and climate effects.

• Nitrogen oxides are crucial in forming smog and acid rain.
• They also contribute to the greenhouse effect and nitrogen deposition, impacting ecosystems.

Understanding these processes involves a multidisciplinary approach, including aspects of physics, biology, and environmental science, making atmospheric chemistry a pivotal field in addressing global environmental challenges.