[Unit 6.1] | Idea Of Equilibrium

Question 1

What is an equilibrium mixture?

Answer 1

• A mixture where all the reactants and products of a reversible reaction remain in constant proportion.

Question 2

What is a dynamic equilibrium?

Answer 2

One where the forward and backward reaction occur at the same rate, thereby meaning the proportion of products & reactions remains constant.

Question 3

What 4 conditions apply to all equalibria?

Answer 3

• Can only be reached in a closed system.

• Equulibria can be approached forward or backward and still yield the same result under constant conditions.

• Equilibria are dynamic: they are reached when both the forward & backward reaction occur at the same rate.

• Equilibrium is reached when macroscopic properties do not change
• (Density, Concentration, Colour, Pressure, Etc.)

Question 4

Describe the process of reaching equilibrium for the forward reaction of:

• A+B ⇌ C+D

Answer 4

1. A+B react to form C+D
2. Concentration of A+B decreases while C+D increases.
   • Rate of reaction of A+B therefore slows while rate of reaction of C+D increases.
3. Rates of reaction level out and equilibrium is reached.