Reversible Reactions and Equilibrium

• What are reversible reactions characterized by?

  A double arrow indicating both directions
• What does the term equilibrium refer to in reversible reactions?

  Rates of forward and backward reactions are equal
• What does a one-way reaction indicate?

  Reactants turn into products only
• What happens to the rates of forward and backward reactions over time?

  They eventually even out at equilibrium
• What does it mean when a reaction is at equilibrium?

  No overall change in concentrations occurs
• Can the concentrations of reactants and products be the same at equilibrium?

  No, they can be different amounts
• What does it mean if the equilibrium lies to the right?

  There are more products than reactants
• How does adding heat affect the position of equilibrium?

  It encourages the forward reaction
• What happens to equilibrium when the reaction is cooled?

  It shifts back to the left
• What is required for equilibrium to be reached in a reversible reaction?

  A closed system where nothing escapes
• What is the relationship between exothermic and endothermic reactions in reversible reactions?

  One is exothermic, the other is endothermic
• What does hydrated mean in chemistry?

  Water is present in the compound
• What happens when hydrated copper sulfate is heated?

  It turns into anhydrous copper sulfate
• What occurs when water is added to anhydrous copper sulfate?

  It reforms blue crystals of copper sulfate
• What energy change occurs during the forward reaction of hydrated copper sulfate?

  It absorbs heat energy from surroundings
• What happens during the backward reaction of hydrated copper sulfate?

  It releases energy absorbed in the forward reaction
• What are the key points about reversible reactions?

  • Characterized by a double arrow
  • Can proceed in both forward and backward directions
  • One direction is exothermic, the other endothermic
  • Equilibrium occurs when rates are equal
  • Concentrations remain constant at equilibrium
  • Position of equilibrium can shift based on conditions
• What factors affect the position of equilibrium?

  • Temperature changes (heating or cooling)
  • Concentration of reactants or products
  • Pressure changes in gaseous reactions
• What is the significance of a closed system in reversible reactions?

  • Prevents escape of reactants or products
  • Allows equilibrium to be reached