Representations of Equilibrium
Chemistry: IB Diploma Higher Level, topic 5.6.5
Representations of Equilibrium
The equilibrium position of a closed system depends on the temperature or pressure of the system. The equilibrium position is defined by the ratio of products to reactants.
Solvation
- If a salt dissolves well, the position of equilibrium lies to the right, towards the side of dissolved ions.
- A salt which dissolves well is described as a strong electrolyte.
- A particulate representation can be used to show how good an electrolyte a salt is in a particular solution.
Reactions
- Particulate representations can also be used for chemical reactions such as the Haber process for forming ammonia.
- 3H2(g) + N2(g) → 2NH3(g)
- The position of equilibrium can be calculated by the ratio of products to reactants.
Test yourself on Representations of Equilibrium
Is NaCl a good or bad electrolyte in this example?
What is the value of the equilibrium constant, K, in pictured scenario?
Hint: You may want to consider the equation for the reaction.