Chemical Equilibrium

Vocabulary flashcards covering the fundamental concepts of chemical equilibrium, including dynamic versus static states and system types.

Reversible Reactions

Reactions that can proceed in both the forward and reverse direction; most physical changes are reversible.

Equilibrium

The point at which there is no change in the concentration of products and reactants because the rate of forward reaction = rate of reverse reaction.

Rate of reaction

How fast a reaction takes place.

Extent

How many reactants are turned to products in the time until equilibrium is reached.

Dynamic Equilibrium

A state that can only occur in a closed system where both the forward and reverse reactions are occurring at the same rate, resulting in no net change.

Static Equilibrium

A state where the forward and reverse reactions are not occurring at all, resulting in no overall change.

Closed System

A system that doesn't allow any matter to be transferred with the surroundings, although energy can be transferred to and from surroundings.

Open System

A system where reactants or products may be lost to the environment, which prevents equilibrium from being reached.

Equilibrium Concentration

At equilibrium, individual concentrations stay the same, but reactants and products are not necessarily of equal concentration.