At what atmospheric pressure is the Haber process typically conducted?

The Haber process, used for synthesizing ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen gases, is typically conducted at high atmospheric pressures to favor the production of ammonia. A pressure of around 200 atmospheres is optimal because it shifts the equilibrium position towards the formation of ammonia, according to Le Chatelier's principle. Higher pressure increases the yield of ammonia by favoring the direction of the reaction that produces fewer gas molecules, which in this case is the formation of ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen.

While it is true that pressures around 200 atmospheres are used, pressures can vary in practice depending on specific conditions and economic considerations. The higher the pressure used, the higher the rate of reaction and yield of ammonia, but practicality and equipment limits play a role in determining the actual operating pressure in industrial settings. As such, 200 atmospheres aligns closely with the typical operational parameters of the process.