Chapter 13, Problem 1E

What does it mean to describe a reaction as “reversible”?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

To describe a reaction as reversible.

Concept introduction:

In a chemical reaction one substance changes into other substance. In other words, in a chemical reaction reactants are converting into products.

For example, a hypothetical reaction in which A and B are reactants which reacts with each other and results in the formation of C (product).

  $\begin{array}{l}A+B\to C\\ \text{Reactants Product}\end{array}$

Answer to Problem 1E

A reaction in which the conversion of reactants to products occurs simultaneously with the conversion of products to the reactants is known as reversible reaction.

Explanation of Solution

When a reaction occurs in both direction means forward as well as backward direction; then it is called reversible reaction.

In this reaction reactants results in the formation of products that, in turn react with each other to form reactants back. This type of reaction indicated by the sign of $\stackrel{}{\rightleftharpoons }$

For example: A hypothetical reaction, in which A and B reacts with each other and results in the formation of C and D, which in turn reacts with each other and form A and B.

  $A+B\stackrel{}{\rightleftharpoons }C+D$

Conclusion

Reversible reaction implies a reaction which occurs in forward as well as in backward direction that is reactants convert into products that in reacts with each other to form reactants.