6.3.1

Reversible Reactions

Test yourself

Reversible Reactions

Some chemical reactions can proceed in both forwards and backwards directions. We describe these reactions as reversible.

Illustrative background for Reversible reactionsIllustrative background for Reversible reactions ?? "content

Reversible reactions

  • A + B ⇌ C + D
    • The reactants (A + B) can combine to give the products (C + D).
    • The products (C + D) can combine to give the reactants (A + B).
Illustrative background for Exothermic and endothermic reactionsIllustrative background for Exothermic and endothermic reactions ?? "content

Exothermic and endothermic reactions

  • If the forwards reaction is exothermic (transfers energy from reactants to the environment), the backwards reaction will be endothermic (transfers energy from environment to the reactants).
Illustrative background for Conservation of energyIllustrative background for Conservation of energy ?? "content

Conservation of energy

  • Energy is conserved during chemical reactions.
  • The energy released/absorbed by the forward reaction will be exactly equal to the energy absorbed/released by the backward reaction.

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Atoms, Elements & Compounds

3Stoichometry

4Electrochemistry

5Chemical Energetics

6Chemical Reactions

7Acids, Bases & Salts

8The Periodic Table

9Metals

10Chemistry of the Environment

11Organic Chemistry

11.1Formulae, Functional Groups & Terminology

11.2Naming Organic Compounds

11.3Fuels

11.4Alkanes

11.5Alkenes

11.6Alcohols

11.7Carboxylic Acids

11.8Polymers

12Experimental Techniques & Chemical Analysis

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium