Equilibria Flashcards
What are reversible reactions?
Reversible reactions are chemical reactions that in which the products can react to make the original reactants again.
When is equilibrium achieved in a reversible reaction?
An equilibrium is the point in a reaction when the forward and reverse reactions occur at the same rates in a closed system. This is also known as dynamic equilibrium.
What does Le Chatelier’s Principle dictate?
If a system is in dynamic equilibrium and is disturbed by changing the conditions, the position of equilibrium moves to oppose the change.
What happens to dynamic equilibrium when concentration is changed?
If concentration of reactants is increased, the forward reaction is favoured so that the rate of reactants reacting is faster than the reverse reaction. Therefore, the position of equilibrium moves to the right opposing the change.
How do changes in temperature affect dynamic equilibrium?
Increase in temperature favours the endothermic reaction.
Decrease in temperature favours the exothermic reaction.
How do changes in pressure affect dynamic equilibrium?
Increasing pressure favours reaction producing fewer moles of gas.
Decreasing pressure favours the reaction producing more moles of gas.
How do catalysts affect reversible reactions?
Catalysts increase the rate of reaction but do not change the position of equilibrium.
What conditions are used for reversible reactions commercially?
Moderate pressures are used despite highest being most effective for cost and safety.
High temperature is used even if low temperature is best to increase the rate of reaction.
This are both compromises that are made for commercial viability.
Catalysts are always used.
Reactants concentration is increased, products are removed to reduce concentration.
