Say whether each is at equilibrium, and if so, which two rates are equal: (a) ice and water…
Contributed by StemPy LabTry it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
Say whether each is at equilibrium, and if so, which two rates are equal: (a) ice and water together in a sealed, insulated flask at 273 K; (b) a puddle drying in the sun; (c) a sealed jar of honey with sugar crystals at the bottom that never change in size; (d) a candle burning.
Need a reminder? The key ideaShow
At equilibrium in a closed system, the forward and backward processes go on at equal rates, so the concentrations stay constant. Equilibrium is dynamic, and the same mixture is reached from either side.
The worked solution
Have you tried it?
Work it out on paper first. It is fine to get stuck or make a mistake: that is how we learn. When you are ready, go through the solution one step at a time, and check each step against your own.
Step 1. Ice and water. It is closed, and melting and freezing go on at equal rates. At equilibrium.
Step 2. The puddle. The vapour escapes into the open air, so the water only evaporates. Not at equilibrium.
Step 3. The honey. It is a saturated solution. Sugar dissolves and crystallises at equal rates. At equilibrium.
Step 4. The candle. Wax burns but never forms again from the gases. Not at equilibrium.
Answer: (a) and (c) are at equilibrium; (b) and (d) are not.
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