[Cormzy]

Hi everyone,
I came across this question in a test,

Bromine reacts with water according to the equation,
Br2 + H20 http://www.chemicalforums.com/Smileys/classic/equilibrium.png HOBr+HBr
Which one of the following shifts the equilibrium to the right.

1: Adding bromide ions

2: Adding Hydrogen ions

3: Decreasing the concentration of Bromine

4: Increasing the concentration of hydroxide ions

I that the 4 is the answer as it would neutralize the H+ ions in Br, however wouldn't this add to the hydrogen ions present in the HOBr solution and have little effect on equilibrium.
Do you know what answer is correct and if so would you be able to suggest the reason,
Many thanks,
Cormzy.
 

[chenbeier]

You are right No 4 is the answer, The  Hydroxide will neutralize the HBr and HOBr to the salt. So more Bromine and water has to react to get the acids again. All other solutions drive the equilibrium to left side.

[Cormzy]

Thank you Chenbeier, that comment was really helpful,
I understand the question now,