Chapter 17.2, Problem 3RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

There are an infinite number of equilibrium positions for a particular system at a particular temperature, but there is only one value of the equilibrium constant for this system at this temperature, the reason behind this fact is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

• The Equilibrium position is that position where the rate of the forward reaction is equal to the rate of reverse reaction.
• The Equilibrium constant, at the constant temperature is calculated by dividing the molar concentration of the products to the molar concentration of the reactants with each term raised to a power equal to the stoichiometric coefficient in the balanced chemical equation.

Answer to Problem 3RQ

The equilibrium position of a chemical reaction depends upon the concentration of reactants and products while the ratio of equilibrium constant remains the same.

Explanation of Solution

The Equilibrium position is that position where the rate of forward and reverse reactions become equal and their position is changed by the addition of the catalyst, by increasing the temperature, by adding the heat and by changing the concentration of reactants or products etc. due to these factors, the rate of reaction is affected and so, the reaction rate is changed to attains the equilibrium positions. On the other hand, these factors do not affect the value of the equilibrium constant which is calculated by dividing the molar concentration of the products to the molar concentration of the reactants with each term raised to a power equal to the stoichiometric coefficient in the balanced chemical equation. Hence, it is clear that there are an infinite number of equilibrium positions for a particular system at a particular temperature but there is only one value of the equilibrium constant for the system at this temperature.

Conclusion

In a reaction, the number of moles may change but the ratio of the equilibrium constant of the forward and reverse reaction remains the same.