Question

Explain the difference between physical equilibrium and chemical equilibrium. Give two examples of each.

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

In a chemical equilibrium, there are different reactants and products are involved. For example, reaction equation for self-ionization is as follows.

`H_(2)O \rightleftharpoons H^(+) + OH^(-)`

This reaction is a chemical equilibrium. Also, nitrogen dioxide when present in equilibrium with nitrogen tetraoxide represents chemical equilibrium.

`2NO_(2) \rightleftarrow N_(2)O_(4)`

On the other hand, in a physical equilibrium same substance is present in different physical states. For example, when ice is present in equilibrium with water then it shows physical equilibrium.

`H_(2)O(s) \rightleftharpoons H_(2)O(l)`

And, liquid water present in equilibrium with water vapor also represents physical equilibrium.

`H_(2)O(l) \rightleftarrow H_(2)O(g)`