Question

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

Answer 1

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.

         $H_{2}O(l) \rightleftarrow H_{2}O(g)$