1. Reversible Reactions

Dynamic equilibrium

When the forwards and backwards reaction occur at the same rate in a closed system.

Le Chatelier’s principle

If a reaction at equilibrium is subjected to a change in concentration, pressure or temperature, the position of the equilibrium will shift to counteract the change.

What happens to the equilibrium if you increase the concentration?

• Makes more product to get rid of the extra reactant, making the reaction go faster, shifting the equilibrium to the right.

What happens to the equilibrium if you increase the pressure?

• Changing the pressure only affects equilibrium involving gases.

• Increasing the pressure causes the equilibrium to shift to the side with less moles and vice versa.

What happens to the equilibrium if you increase the temperature?

• If you add more heat, the equilibrium shifts to the endothermic direction to absorb that heat and vice versa.