Chapter U6.119, Problem 2E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The processes that are balanced when a system has reached chemical equilibrium needs to be explained.

Concept introduction: Equilibrium is a dynamic process. The word dynamic means that things are constantly changing. Equilibrium is a property of mixture, meaning that it does not matter how you start the process.

Answer to Problem 2E

The forward and backward processes are balanced when a system has reached chemical equilibrium.

Explanation of Solution

Equilibrium is a balance that is reached between the forward and the reverse and the reverse processes in a reversible change. To an observer, it seems that things are no longer changing. In reality, however changes are continuously occurring at an atomic scale, but the changes balance each other out. When system is at chemical equilibrium, the rate of forward reaction is equal to the rate of backward reaction.

Conclusion

Balance of forward and backward process happen when a system reached equilibrium.