Chemical reactions that take place in both forward and reverse directions
Irreversible reaction
Chemical reactions that take place in one direction only
Irreversible reaction
1. Reaction A + B gives product
2. Reaction continues until at least one reactant is used up
3. One reactant is limiting
Reversible reaction
Entire amount of reactants is converted into products
Reversible reaction
1. Proceeds in both forward and reverse directions
2. Reaches equilibrium where forward and reverse rates are equal
Free energy change (ΔG)
Determines if a reaction is spontaneous (ΔG < 0) or non-spontaneous (ΔG > 0)
Reversible reaction
Reaction between phosphorus and chlorine to form phosphorus trichloride
Reversible reaction
Reaction between ethyl group and carboxyl group to form an ester
Reversible reactions can be distinguished from irreversible reactions by whether equilibrium is attained and if reactants can be fully converted to products
