Question

Define equilibrium. Give two examples of a dynamic equilibrium.

Short answer

Equilibrium is a state where opposing forces or influences are evenly matched, leading no net change. Dynamic equilibrium refers to a state of balance between continuous processes that happen at equal rates. Example of dynamic equilibrium include a simple chemical reaction in a closed system where the forward and reverse reactions occur at the same rate, resulting in no net change, and the human body maintaining a consistent temperature by balancing heat production and loss.

Step-by-step solution

Define Equilibrium

Equilibrium is a state of balance in which opposing forces or influences are evenly matched, leading to no net change. It applies to various scientific fields, including physics, chemistry, and biology.

Define Dynamic Equilibrium

However, in the specific case of dynamic equilibrium, this is a state of balance between continuing processes. It occurs when the rate of forward process is equal to the rate of the reverse process resulting in no net change in the system. These processes continue to happen but the overall properties remain stable because they're happening at equal rates.

Provide examples of Dynamic Equilibrium

Example 1: Consider a simple chemical reaction where reactant A is converted into product B, represented as \( A \rightarrow B \). In a closed system, product B can also revert to become reactant A, \( B \rightarrow A \). When the forward reaction (A transforming into B) occurs at the same rate as the reverse reaction (B transforming back into A), the system is said to be in a state of dynamic equilibrium. \n\nExample 2: In a more biological context, human body temperature is an excellent example of dynamic equilibrium. Your body is constantly producing and losing heat, but it manages to keep your body temperature remarkably consistent. This is an example of a dynamic equilibrium because the production and loss of heat are balanced.