Reversible Reactions & Equilibria

Question 1

What is a reversible reaction?

Answer 1

A reaction that can go both forwards and backwards under different conditions.

Reversible reactions are characterized by the ability to reach equilibrium.

Question 2

What is dynamic equilibrium?

Answer 2

A state in a closed system where the rate of the forward reaction equals the rate of the reverse reaction.

In dynamic equilibrium, concentrations of reactants and products remain constant.

Question 3

What happens to equilibrium if temperature increases?

Answer 3

It shifts in the direction of the endothermic reaction.

This is based on Le Chatelier’s principle.

Question 4

What happens to equilibrium if pressure increases?

Answer 4

It shifts toward the side with fewer gas molecules.

This occurs because the system tries to reduce pressure by favoring the side with less volume.

Question 5

What happens to equilibrium if a catalyst is added?

Answer 5

It speeds up both the forward and reverse reactions without shifting the equilibrium position.

Catalysts do not affect the position of equilibrium; they only help reach it faster.