Chapter 14, Problem 1PE

In what way dots the chapter-opening photo represent a dynamic equilibrium and in what ways does it differ from a dynamic equilibrium?

Interpretation Introduction

The way in which the chapter-opening photo represents dynamic equilibrium and the ways in which it differs from a dynamic equilibrium are to be provided.

Concept Introduction:

The chapter-opening photo represents an artist maintaining equilibrium in a high-wire act. Dynamic equilibrium can be defined as the state of chemical equilibrium in which the concentrations of products and substrates cease to change that is rate of forward reaction is equal to rate of backward reaction. Such kind of equilibrium is established when two different and opposing processes take place at a similar rate.

Answer to Problem 1PE

Solution:

The tight-rope walker represents a dynamic equilibrium in the chapter-opening photograph because the walker is consistently adjusting to keep himself upright. It differs from the dynamic equilibrium as the two processes are in equilibrium are not occurring at the same time.

Explanation of Solution

In the picture, the artist is maintaining the equilibrium in a high wire act. The maintenance of the equilibrium is necessary to prevent any disaster. The tightrope walker maintains the equilibrium by counteracting the motion that is by keeping himself upright. In case, if he or she gets pushed in one direction, then he or she tries to bend in other direction to maintain the equilibrium. This similar to the processes during dynamic equilibrium. In case, if changes in one condition takes place, then the processes try to maintain the equilibrium.

In case of dynamic equilibrium, the concentration of reactants and products remains constant. Such reactions are reversible, that is the concentration of substrate decreases until it reaches non-zero value and similarly, the concentration of products increases till it reaches final steady value. In dynamic equilibrium, the reaction can move either in forward or backward reaction, however in high wire act, in case, if the walker is not able to maintain the balance, then he or she will fall.

The way it differs from a dynamic equilibrium is that the two processes, which are in equilibrium, are not occurring simultaneously.

Conclusion

The tight rope walker tries to maintain equilibrium by counteracting the motion. The two processes are in equilibrium but are not occurring at the same time.