Chapter 17.1, Problem 10SSC

Solution

Interpretation:

- The three characteristics that a reaction mixture must have if it to attain the state of chemical equilibrium is to be listed.

Concept introduction:

- The reaction in which the concentration of reactant and product are almost same are known as the reaction in chemical equilibrium.

1. Reaction occurs in closed system.
2. Rate of forward reaction is equal to rate of backward reaction.
3. Catalyst have no effect on equilibrium point.

The chemical equilibrium describes concentration of reactant and product remain same during the entire reaction, then the reaction mixture is said to be in equilibrium. Equilibrium is denoted in a chemical equation by the $\rightleftharpoons$ symbol.

The characteristics possessed by a reaction mixture to attained chemical equilibrium are

1. Equilibrium may only be obtained in a closed system, otherwise some of the product may escape, leading to the absence of a reverse reaction.
2. The rate of forward reaction is equal to the rate of reverse reaction such reaction is called reversible reactions.

Rate of forward

$\rightleftharpoons$

Rate of backward

3. Catalyst have no effect on the equilibrium point. It can only reduce the time required for equilibrium. It means rete of both forward and backward reaction increase.
4. The consistency of observable physical properties such as concentration, color pressure and density can indicate that reaction has reached equilibrium.

1. Reaction occurs in closed system.
2. Rate of forward reaction is equal to rate of backward reaction.
3. Catalyst have no effect on equilibrium point.