Static equilibrium is a type of equilibrium in which the rates of the forward and reverse processes are zero.
We are all familiar with , in which the rates of opposing processes are equal.
Static equilibrium occurs when there is no exchange between reactants and products.
An example of static equilibrium is diamond turning into graphite.
##”C(diamond) ⇌ C(graphite)”##
Graphite is more stable than diamond, but the activation energy is so high that you must heat diamond to about 2000 °C before you’ll see any diamond converting to graphite.
The estimates are that, at room temperature, the process will take millions or billions of years.
I can’t wait that long, so, effectively, no diamond is being converted to graphite or vice versa.
The process is in static equilibrium.
If you have a reaction that can occur in only one direction, you can reach equilibrium once you have used up the .
Since the forward and reverse reactions stop occurring, you are at static equilibrium.
This defines the difference between dynamic and static equilibria.
In both cases, the rates of the forward and reverse reactions are the same.
The difference is: in static equilibrium, the rates of the forward and reverse reactions are zero.
Select your paper details and see how much our professional writing services will cost.
Our custom human-written papers from top essay writers are always free from plagiarism.
Your data and payment info stay secured every time you get our help from an essay writer.
Your money is safe with us. If your plans change, you can get it sent back to your card.
We offer more than just hand-crafted papers customized for you. Here are more of our greatest perks.
Get instant answers to the questions that students ask most often.
See full FAQ