Reversible Reactions (Equilibrium)

Chemical Equilibrium Requirements:

• Must be a reversible reaction

• Must be in a closed system

Properties of Equilibrium:

• It is dynamic

• Concentrations don't change

• Position can be altered by temperature, concentration and pressure.

If pressure is increased:

• Equilibrium shifts to the side with less molecules to reduce the overall pressure.

• The result is an increase of the side with less molecules.

If temperature is increased:

• Equilibrium shifts to the side that takes in energy (endothermic) to be produced.

• The result is an increase of the side that absorbs heat.

If concentration is increased:

• Equilibrium shifts to the side with the lower concentration because there are more of its reactants to produce it.

• The result is an increase of the side with the lower concentration.

Le Chatelier's Principle

• If a chemical equilibrium is subjected to a change in conditions, then it will counteract the change.