Simulating Dynamic Equilibria:: A Class Experiment

• Paul D. Buckley ^[1] ; John A. Harrison ^[1]
  1. [1] Massey University

     Massey University

     Nueva Zelanda

     
• Localización: Journal of chemical education, ISSN 0021-9584, Vol. 77, Nº 8 (August), 2000, págs. 1013-1013
• Idioma: inglés
• Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
• Resumen

  • A first-order reversible reaction is simulated on an overhead projector using small coins or discs. A simulation is carried out in which initially there are 24 discs representing reactant A and none representing reactant B. At the end of each minute half of the reactant A discs get converted to reactant B, and one quarter of the reactant B discs get converted to reactant A discs. Equilibrium is established with 8 A discs and 16 B discs, and no further net change is observed as the simulation continues. Another simulation beginning with 48 A discs and 0 B discs leads at equilibrium to 16 A discs and 32 B discs. These results illustrate how dynamic equilibria are established and allow the introduction of the concept of an equilibrium constant. Le Châtelier's principle is illustrated by further simulations.