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Chapter 14: Problem 59

Does the reverse reaction rate ever equal zero? Why or why not?

Short Answer

Expert verified
No, the reverse reaction rate does not reach zero because of the dynamic equilibrium that occurs in chemical reactions. Only under theoretical conditions where no product is present could the reverse reaction rate be zero.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Chemical Equilibrium

Chemical equilibrium refers to the state where the concentration of reactants and products does not change over time. In other words, it means that the rate of the forward reaction equals the rate of the reverse reaction.
02

Consideration of Reverse Reaction Rate

The rate of the reverse reaction signifies the rate at which the products convert back into reactants. In principle, this rate should become zero if there are no products present in the system. However, this condition is never truly achieved because reactions always come to dynamic equilibrium where both forward and backward reactions continue at an equal rate.
03

Zero Rate Implications

If the rate of the reverse reaction were to be zero, it would imply that no product is being converted back into reactant. This is contrary to the definition of dynamic equilibrium where both forward and backward reactions occur without a change in the overall concentration of reactants and products.

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