Reversible Reactions

What is a reversible reaction?

A reaction in which products can react to reform the original reactants.

How is a reversible reaction represented?

Using the symbol ⇌.

What is the forward reaction?

The reaction in which reactants form products.

What is the reverse reaction?

The reaction in which products reform reactants.

What does the symbol ⇌ indicate?

The reaction can proceed in both forward and reverse directions.

What happens to the products in a reversible reaction?

They can react to form the original reactants.

What is a common example of a reversible reaction?

Hydrated copper sulfate ⇌ anhydrous copper sulfate + water.

What colour is hydrated copper sulfate?

Blue.

What colour is anhydrous copper sulfate?

White.

What happens when hydrated copper sulfate is heated?

It loses water and forms white anhydrous copper sulfate.

What happens when water is added to anhydrous copper sulfate?

It forms blue hydrated copper sulfate.

What is the word equation for the reversible copper sulfate reaction?

Hydrated copper sulfate ⇌ anhydrous copper sulfate + water.

Why is this reaction reversible?

Removing water and adding water cause opposite changes.

What is another example of a reversible hydration reaction?

Hydrated cobalt chloride ⇌ anhydrous cobalt chloride + water.

What colour is hydrated cobalt chloride?

Pink.

What colour is anhydrous cobalt chloride?

Blue.

What happens when hydrated cobalt chloride is heated?

It loses water and turns blue.

What happens when water is added to anhydrous cobalt chloride?

It becomes hydrated and turns pink.

How can reversible reactions be identified experimentally?

By showing that the products can be converted back into the original reactants.

Does every reversible reaction reach equilibrium?

No, equilibrium requires suitable conditions, including a closed system.