Dynamic Equilibrium

Definition

When reversible reactions are place in a closed system, the macroscopic or observable
properties of the system eventually become constant. The system is said to be at
equilibrium. The equilibrium is dynamic because the forward and reverse reactions
continue to occur with no net change occurring in the system.

Conditions:

1) Reactions must be reversible

2) Reactions occurs in a closed system

Characteristics

• The macroscopic or observable properties of the system become constant.

Macroscopic properties would include colors , pressure, volume, and
concentration
• The equilibrium can be approached starting with only reactants, only
products or a combination of both.

Consider the reaction between two hydrogen iodide molecules, like the ones
demonstrated in the rates module (hydrogen is blue and iodine is the red atom). As
mentioned in the presentation, if the reacting molecules have the proper speed and
orientation an effective collision occurs, and the products form. The reaction can be
described using the equation below

2 HI (g) ------> H2(g) + I2 (g)

Now consider the products of the reaction, the hydrogen and iodine molecules. If these
molecules remain in the mixture, it is reasonable to assume that they too might collide,
with each other to reform the reactant hydrogen iodide. This reaction would be the exact
reverse of the one above.

H2 (g) + I2 (g) ------> 2 HI (g)