Hi- Please provide a detailed explanation for each choice. If you do, will give
ID: 521094 • Letter: H
Question
Hi- Please provide a detailed explanation for each choice. If you do, will give a good rating. The answer is neither the forward nor the reverse process is spontaneous (D). I have narrowed it down to the answer and the last choice Thanks!!
When a system is at equilibrium?
the reverse process is spontaneous but the forward process is not
the forward and the reverse processes are both spontaneous
the forward process is spontaneous but the reverse process is not
neither the forward nor the reverse process is spontaneous
both forward and reverse processes have stopped
Explanation / Answer
Equilibrium means like a tug of war game with equally energetic persons are at opposite to each other. neither forward nor reverse moments are ceased due to equal energy from opposite sides.
Consider A + B <==> C + D
forward process is spontaneous means reaction proceed towards product formation (C + D )
reverse process is spontaneous means reaction proceed to favor reactants formation (A + B)
both are spontaneous condition is invalid, either any one direction only reaction proceeds.
1. the reverse process is spontaneous but the forward process is not
Reason: consider H2O (l) <==> H+ (aq) + OH- (aq), this reaction is spontaneous in reverse process only, water will not ionize unless we do electrolysis with added electrolytes such as NaCl, KCl etc.
2. the forward and the reverse processes are both spontaneous
Reason: It's an impossible combination. Only one direction will be spontaneous in any reaction.
3. the forward process is spontaneous but the reverse process is not
Reason: This is a very common condition for exothermic reactions. Reaction favors product formation example is fission of radioactive element.
4. neither the forward nor the reverse process is spontaneous both forward and reverse processes have stopped.
Reason: This is the definition of equilibrium.
Thank You!
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