Equilibrium is a state of balance or stability in a system where opposing forces or factors are equal and offset each other. In chemistry, it refers to a state in which the concentrations of reactants and products in a reversible reaction remain constant over time. In economics, it refers to a state in which supply and demand are in balance, resulting in stable prices.
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Google Gemini AI
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Equilibrium
Definition:
Equilibrium is a state in which opposing forces or influences balance each other out, resulting in no net change or movement.
Types of Equilibrium:
- Mechanical Equilibrium: When the net force acting on an object is zero and it is not accelerating. - Thermal Equilibrium: When the temperature of two or more substances in contact with each other remains constant. - Chemical Equilibrium: When the concentrations of reactants and products in a chemical reaction do not change over time.
Conditions for Equilibrium:
For a system to be in equilibrium, the following conditions must be met:
- Closed System: No mass or energy enters or leaves the system. - Constant Conditions: Temperature, pressure, and volume do not change. - Reversibility: The forward and reverse reactions occur at the same rate.
Equilibrium Constant (Kc):
The equilibrium constant is a constant value that characterizes the relative amounts of reactants and products at equilibrium. It is calculated using the following equation:
``` Kc = [Products] / [Reactants] ```
where [Products] and [Reactants] represent the molar concentrations of the respective species at equilibrium.
Le Chatelier's Principle:
Le Chatelier's principle states that if a change is made to the equilibrium conditions of a system, the system will shift in a direction that counteracts the change.
Applications of Equilibrium:
Equilibrium is a fundamental concept in many areas of science and engineering, including:
- Chemistry: Predicting reaction yields and product distributions. - Physics: Understanding phase changes and fluid dynamics. - Biology: Maintaining homeostasis in living organisms. - Engineering: Designing processes and systems that operate under equilibrium conditions.