Chapter 12, Problem 12.15PAE

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

“In the following equilibrium in lake water, which of the inferences below can be drawn from the equation alone?

${\text{HCO}}_3^{-}\text{(aq)}\rightleftharpoons {\text{H}}^{\text{+}}{\text{(aq) + CO}}_{\text{3}}^{\text{2-}}\text{(aq)}$

1. The rate of the forward reaction equals the rate of the reverse reaction.
2. The equilibrium concentrations of all species are equal.

Equilibrium was attained by starting with only ${\text{HCO}}_3^{-}\text{(aq)}$

3. in solution., should be explained

Concept introduction:

• At equilibrium; the concentrations of reactants and products do not change according to time.
• At equilibrium; the concentrations of reactants and products remain constant.
• At equilibrium; the rate of forward reaction and the rate of reverse reaction are same.