Chemical Equilibrium Basics

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Explain the concept of equilibrium in the context of observable properties and the extent of a reaction's completion.

Equilibrium refers to a state of balance where observable properties such as color, pressure, temperature, volume, and concentration remain unchanged. It also indicates the extent to which a reaction proceeds toward completion before reaching the state of equilibrium, and the percentage of products and by-products formed.

Provide an example of static equilibrium and explain its characteristics.

An example of static equilibrium is a ball on a table or a rock on a hill. It is a state of rest, does not show any change, can occur in irreversible processes, and can be observed in both open and closed systems.

Describe dynamic equilibrium and its distinguishing features.

Dynamic equilibrium is a state where macroscopic properties remain constant or constant exchange is observed. It occurs only in closed systems and is reversible in nature.

Illustrate the concept of equilibrium using the example of a sea-saw. How does it exemplify equilibrium?

In the example of a sea-saw, if two persons with the same weight sit on opposite sides at an equal distance from the fulcrum, the sea-saw will be stationary and straight, representing a state of equilibrium.

Discuss the concept of equilibrium in the context of the game tug-of-war. How does it demonstrate equilibrium?

In the game of tug-of-war, when both teams pull the rope with equal force and it does not move in either direction, it represents a state of equilibrium.

Study Notes

Equilibrium in Chemical Reactions

  • Equilibrium is a state where the observable properties of a system remain constant, indicating that the reaction has reached a balance between forward and reverse reactions.
  • The extent of a reaction's completion is a measure of how far the reaction has progressed towards equilibrium.

Static Equilibrium

  • Static equilibrium occurs when the reaction rates are zero, meaning there is no net change in the system.
  • Characteristics of static equilibrium include:
    • No observable change in the system
    • No net reaction occurs
    • Reactants and products are not changing in concentration

Dynamic Equilibrium

  • Dynamic equilibrium occurs when the forward and reverse reaction rates are equal, but not zero.
  • Distinguishing features of dynamic equilibrium include:
    • Constant concentrations of reactants and products
    • Equal rates of forward and reverse reactions
    • The system appears to be static, but reactions are still occurring

Sea-Saw Analogy

  • The concept of equilibrium can be illustrated using a sea-saw, where two people are in balance, with one person's downward motion matched by the other person's upward motion.
  • The sea-saw exemplifies equilibrium because:
    • The system appears to be static, but forces are still acting
    • The upward and downward forces are equal, but not zero

Tug-of-War Analogy

  • The concept of equilibrium can be demonstrated using a game of tug-of-war, where two teams are pulling the rope with equal forces.
  • The game of tug-of-war demonstrates equilibrium because:
    • The rope appears to be stationary, but forces are still acting
    • The opposing forces are equal, but not zero, resulting in no net change in the rope's position

Test your understanding of the basics of chemical equilibrium with this quiz. Explore concepts such as the state of equilibrium, observable properties, and the extent of a reaction's completion.

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