Final answer:
The steady state (SS) in a chemical reaction occurs when the rate of the forward reaction is equal to the rate of the reverse reaction, resulting in a constant concentration of reactants and products. It is a condition of equilibrium.
Step-by-step explanation:
The steady state (SS) in a chemical reaction refers to a condition where the rate of the forward reaction is equal to the rate of the reverse reaction, resulting in a constant concentration of reactants and products over time. The steady state occurs when the following conditions are met:
- The rate of formation of products is equal to the rate of their consumption.
- The concentration of the reactants and products remains constant.
- The system is at equilibrium.