Finding Reversibility

[AlbertGu_2C]

If we are not given an explicit statement that a reaction is irreversible/reversible, what are some ways we could find out?

[705383815]

I believe we can assume that all reactions are reversible unless stated otherwise. I have read that extensively on this forum. One way you can tell if it is irreversible is if the reaction occurs instantly or at a near-instantaneous rate.

[edward_brodell_2I]

The rate at which the volume change occurs is certainly valid, but one could also view it in terms of how many steps it takes to occur. If it is one step then the work of expansion is quick, but if it occurrs in many steps then it will take longer for the sum of the individual steps (dynamic equilibrium) to cumulatively achieve the work of expansion.

[SamayaJoshi1A]

In what real-life applications would a reaction not be reversible? I remember in some of the textbook questions the reactions only occurred in the forward direction.

[Kathy_Li_1H]

Hi! Some signs that a reaction is reversible are that the delta S total equals 0, and if the problem includes values for the number of moles, temperature, and the two volumes.

[Sana Nagori 2H]

doesn't isothermal mean irreversible or is that not always the case?

[Brandon Gruender 3F]

You can tell that a reaction is reversible if he delta S total equals 0. It can also be found if you are given moles, temp, and the change in volume.

[Mackenzie Van Val 3E]

I believe that one way to tell is to see if the reaction is at equilibrium; in my notes for Week 4 Lecture 2, I have that if the reaction is at equilibrium, then it is a reversible process.

[Evonne Hsu 1J]

I think that it is safe to assume that all reactions would likely be reversible in normal conditions unless the question specifically says otherwise.