Deep Dive: Dynamic Equilibrium
Part of Equilibrium (HT) · GCSE GCSE Chemistry revision
This deep dive covers Deep Dive: Dynamic Equilibrium within Equilibrium (HT) for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Equilibrium (HT) in Rates of Reaction for GCSE Chemistry with 23 exam-style questions and 18 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 3 of 14 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 3 of 14
Practice
23 questions
Recall
18 flashcards
🔬 Deep Dive: Dynamic Equilibrium
A reversible reaction is one that can go in both directions — products can turn back into reactants. The symbol ⇌ (two half-arrows pointing in opposite directions) is used to show this. You will see it in equations such as N₂ + 3H₂ ⇌ 2NH₃, meaning the reaction can proceed both left-to-right and right-to-left. (If you have studied Topic 35 Reversible Reactions, this notation is already familiar.)
At equilibrium:
Rate of forward reaction = Rate of backward reaction
Why are concentrations constant at equilibrium? Both reactions are happening at the same speed, so every molecule of product being made is balanced by one being destroyed. The net result is no overall change — like filling a bath with the plug out, where water flows in at the same rate it drains. The level stays constant not because nothing is happening, but because two opposing processes are perfectly balanced.
Key features of equilibrium:
- Dynamic — reactions are still happening in both directions
- Closed system — nothing can enter or leave
- Concentrations are constant — but not necessarily equal
- Position can be changed — by altering conditions
Keep building this topic
Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Equilibrium (HT). That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.
Practice Questions for Equilibrium (HT)
At dynamic equilibrium, which of the following is true?
Explain the effect of increasing temperature on the position of an equilibrium where the forward reaction is exothermic.
Quick Recall Flashcards
23 questions on Equilibrium (HT) — practise free
Instant marking, adaptive difficulty, and 18 spaced repetition flashcards. Free until your GCSEs.
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