The equilibrium N2(g) + O2(g) 2NO(g), is an example of _____________a...
Homogeneous Chemical Equilibrium
The equilibrium N2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2NO(g) is an example of a homogeneous chemical equilibrium.
Definition of Homogeneous Chemical Equilibrium
Homogeneous chemical equilibrium refers to a situation where all the reactants and products are in the same phase (either gas, liquid, or solid) at the equilibrium state.
Explanation
In the given equilibrium expression, N2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2NO(g), all the reactants and products are in the gaseous phase. This means that the reaction is taking place only in the gas phase.
Importance of Phase
The phase of the reactants and products is important in determining whether a chemical equilibrium is homogeneous or heterogeneous. In a homogeneous equilibrium, the reactants and products are in the same phase, while in a heterogeneous equilibrium, they are in different phases.
Example of Homogeneous Equilibrium
Another example of a homogeneous chemical equilibrium is the reaction:
2SO2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2SO3(g)
In this reaction, all the reactants and products are in the gaseous phase, making it a homogeneous equilibrium.
Heterogeneous Chemical Equilibrium
In contrast, a heterogeneous chemical equilibrium involves reactants and products in different phases. For example:
CaCO3(s) ⇌ CaO(s) + CO2(g)
In this reaction, the reactant CaCO3 is in the solid phase, while the products CaO and CO2 are in the solid and gaseous phases, respectively. This makes it a heterogeneous equilibrium.
Conclusion
The equilibrium N2(g) + O2(g) ⇌ 2NO(g) is an example of a homogeneous chemical equilibrium because all the reactants and products are in the gaseous phase. It is important to consider the phase of the substances involved to determine whether a chemical equilibrium is homogeneous or heterogeneous.