Final answer:
To render a near-equilibrium reaction irreversible, one can remove a product as it forms, use excess reactants, or apply dissipative mechanisms to prevent the reverse reaction.
Step-by-step explanation:
To make a reaction that operates near equilibrium essentially irreversible, you can alter the conditions to prevent the reverse reaction. One method is to continuously remove one of the products as it forms. For instance, removing H₂O from the products can make a reaction irreversible. Similarly, employing a strong base like -OH can produce a weaker acid such as H₂O, making the reaction almost irreversible. Another strategy is to use excess amounts of one of the reactants, and according to LeChatelier's principle, this can drive the reaction towards the product side. Conditions such as temperature and pressure can also be adjusted to favor the forward reaction. Moreover, irreversible processes often involve dissipative mechanisms which once occur prevent the reaction from reversing.