What is equal in a chemical reaction which has reached a state of equilibrium?
Unit Overview Chemical equilibrium is perhaps the most important concept developed in Chemistry 30. The topics solubility, acids and bases, and oxidation/reduction can be treated as examples of equilibrium. Since the establishment of an equilibrium depends on equal rates in the forward and reverse reactions in a system, understanding the factors which influence rates of reaction, and why they influence the reaction, is essential to understand how equilibria become established and how Le Chatelier’s principle works. Laboratory activities, independent research, and the case study could all revolve about chemical equilibrium. The study of equilibrium serves as an overall organizing theme for Chemistry 30.
