Chemical Equilibrium Flashcards
Closed System
A system in which mass is conserved inside the system, but energy can enter or leave the system freely.
Open System
A system in which both energy and matter can be exchanged between the system and its surroundings.
Explain dynamic chemical equilibrium.
Dynamic chemical equilibrium refers to a reversible reaction in which the forward and the reverse reactions are taking place at the same rate, and hence the concentrations of reactants and products are constant.
Explain reversible reaction.
A reversible reaction is one in which products can be converted back into reactants.
Le Châtelier’s Principle
When an external stress (change in pressure, temperature or concentration) is applied to a system in dynamic chemical equilibrium, the equilibrium point will change in such a way as to counteract the stress.
What is the effect of adding a catalyst to a system in equilibrium?
The rate of both the forward and reverse reactions will increase equally and hence have no effect on the position of equilibrium.
What influences the value of the equilibrium constant?
Temperature - only factor.
What are the external factors which change the equilibrium position of a particular reaction?
Temperature, pressure & concentration
