Chapter 17, Problem 1STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: True statement for equilibrium needs to be selected.

Concept Introduction: In a static equilibrium, reaction stops on attaining equilibrium whereas in dynamic equilibrium it doesn’t stop after attaining equilibrium. If a chemical equilibrium is static, it means that no forward or backward reaction is taking place and if it is dynamic it means that forward or backward reaction or both are taking place.

Answer to Problem 1STP

Correct answer: It is microscopically dynamic and macroscopically static.

Explanation of Solution

Reason for correct option: For a chemical equilibrium, rate of forward reaction is equal to the rate of the forward reaction. Thus the rate at which products are produced is same as the rate at which the reactants are produced. From naked eye, it appears as if no reaction is taking place but microscopically reaction is taking place.

Conclusion

Reasons for incorrect options: Since the reaction is taking place at the microscopic level, it cannot be static at microscopic level. Also at the macroscopic level, reaction seems to have stopped. So it cannot be said to be dynamic at macroscopic level.