5. The oxidative dehydrogenation of butane to 1-butene (C4H10 + 1/2 O2 <-->C4H8 +

H₂O) occurs in the vapor phase with a stoichiometric feed of butane and oxygen.

The extent of reaction is less than desired, so an engineer suggests that the

reaction should be operated at lower pressure. Is this a good suggestion for

increasing the extent of reaction? What might be a good idea? What are the

possible downsides of that idea? Explain.