Unit 3- Equilibrium Flashcards
What can be changed in a reaction to alter the equilibrium position?
Concentration, temperature, pressure/volume (only applies to gases)
What happens to the equilibrium position when the product concentration is increased?
The reverse reaction increases and equilibrium moves to the left
What does Le Châtelier’s principle state?
If an equilibrium system is subjected to a change, the system will adjust itself to partially oppose the effect of the change
What happens to the equilibrium position when the reactant concentration is increased?
The forward reaction increases and equilibrium moves to the right
On an equilibrium graph, how do you know the reaction has reached equilibrium?
When equilibrium is established the concentration lines are horizontal
What is meant by an “open system”?
An open system allows matter and energy to be exchanged with the surroundings
Are all reactions reversible?
No, for example due to the formation of energetically stable products or loss of products into the environment
What is a “closed system”?
A reaction vessel that does not allow the reactant or product particles to escape
Give an example of an “open” system.
A flask with no lid that allows heat and gas products to escape
What type of system is it when energy can escape but not matter?
Closed system
What is meant by the term “reversible reaction”?
Reactions in which the conversion of reactants to products and products to reactants occur simultaneously.
Are physical changes reversible?
Generally, they are reversible as chemical bonds remain unchanged
Why is a substance in a system more likely to react when the temperature is higher?
The particles of that substance have more kinetic energy, causing them to collide more often with the other particles in the system, making the reaction occur
How are equilibrium reactions symbolised?
Equilibrium reactions are symbolised by ⇌
What is activation energy?
The minimum amount of energy required in the collision between reactants for a reaction to occur