Chapter 38: Problem 6

Use a grammatically correct English sentence to describe the relationship between the forward rate and reverse rate at equilibrium.

Short Answer

Expert verified

At equilibrium, the forward rate of a reaction equals the reverse rate. This means that the formation of products from reactants occurs at the same rate as the reformation of reactants from products.

Step by step solution

Understand chemical equilibrium

To begin, one must comprehend the concept of chemical equilibrium. This is a state in a chemical reaction where the amounts of the reactants and products do not change over time. This happens when the rate of the forward reaction is equal to the rate of the reverse reaction.

Analyze forward and reverse rates

In a chemical reaction, the forward rate is the speed at which the reactants produce the products, while the reverse rate is the speed at which the products revert back to being reactants. These rates can be influenced by different factors including concentration, temperature, and presence of a catalyst.

Describe the relationship at equilibrium

At equilibrium, the forward rate of reaction and the reverse rate of reaction are equal. This means that the amount of reactants being converted into products is the same as the amount of products being converted back into reactants. Therefore, on a macroscopic level, it appears as if the reaction has stopped as the concentrations of reactants and products remain steady though the reactions are still taking place.

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Use a grammatically correct English sentence to describe the relationship between the forward rate and reverse rate at equilibrium.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand chemical equilibrium

Analyze forward and reverse rates

Describe the relationship at equilibrium

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