Question

Which type of chemical reaction, if any, occurs faster at equilibrium: the formation of products from reactants or that of reactants from products?

Short answer

The chemical reactions proceed in the forward as well as reverse direction. The rate of the forward reaction equalizes the rate of the reverse reaction in the equilibrium reaction. The rates of reaction of forward as well as reverse reaction are equal.

Step-by-step solution

Definition of chemical reaction

Different types of reactants react together to form a product,and the process iscalled a chemical reaction. The products are the substance producedat the end of a chemical reaction. The reactants are the initial substance utilized in this reaction.

Usually, a chemical reaction proceeds ata special rate of reaction. It is known as the rate of reaction.

Types of directions in a chemical reaction

There are two directions via which the chemical reaction proceeds:

• Forward reaction
• Reverse reaction

Aforward reaction is a reaction in which the reactants produce the products. Areverse reaction occurs in the opposite direction to the forward reaction in which the products react back to produce the reactants.

Equilibrium reaction

Equilibrium reaction proceeds in a balanced state. It means both the forward and reverse reaction proceeds in a balanced manner.

The rate of reaction of both these reactions has to be equal. None of these two reactions will proceed in a faster manner.

Hence, the forward reaction, as well as the reverse reaction, is equal in the case of an equilibrium reaction. The formation of products from reactants and reactants from the products proceeds in an equal manner in the equilibrium reaction.