Chemistry / Unit 10 Chem 1743 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Twin: "Equilibrium Means Equal Concentrations"
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The idea
Reading equilibrium as equal reactant and product concentrations is an error; only the two opposing rates are equal, and concentrations can settle almost anywhere.
In practice
Sealed nitrogen dioxide and dinitrogen tetroxide reach equilibrium with far more of one gas present than the other.
Where people slip
A textbook diagram showing similar-sized reactant and product boxes can wrongly suggest amounts, not rates, must match.
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