Chemical Equilibrium Flashcards
A closed system
one in which mass is conserved inside the system but energy can enter or leave the system freely
An open system
one in which both energy and matter can be exchanged between the system and its surroundings
Dynamic chemical equilibrium
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
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
Change in Concentration:
Forward Reaction
Reduces reactants and Increases products
Change in Concentration:
Reverse Reaction
Reduces products and Increases reactants
Change in Pressure:
Forward Reaction
decrease number of particles therefore decrease pressure
Change in Pressure:
Reverse Reaction
increase number of particles therefore increase pressure
Change in Temperature:
Forward Reaction
Increase temperature therefore exothermic therefore produces heat
Change in Temperature:
Reverse Reaction
decrease temperature therefore endothermic therefore consumes heat
