Chapter 17, Problem 84A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The possibility of an equilibrium system having k_eq1 having 50% reactants and products needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The equilibrium constant depends upon the concentrations of the reactants the products as well as their stoichiometric coefficients.

Answer to Problem 84A

The possibility of a system having 50% reactants and products at K_eq=1 is not a hundred percent because it depends on the reaction and the coefficients of the reactants as well as products.

Explanation of Solution

For example we consider the below reaction:

$A\to 2B$

The equilibrium cconstant for the reaction:

$K_{eq}=\frac{{[B]}^2}{[A]}$

In the above scenario for the K_eq to be equal to 1, the ratio of reactants and products cannot be 50:50. There are several other reactions like this.

Conclusion

It is not necessary for a reaction with K_eq = 1 to have 50% reactants and products.