CLEP Chemistry provides a comprehensive overview of fundamental chemistry concepts and principles, preparing students for college-level chemistry courses.
Some reactions don’t go to completion; instead, they reach a balance called equilibrium, where the forward and reverse reactions happen at the same rate.
The equilibrium position is described by the equilibrium constant (\( K \)), which tells us the ratio of products to reactants at equilibrium.
Kinetics studies how fast reactions occur. Factors like temperature, concentration, and catalysts can speed up or slow down reactions.
Equilibrium concepts explain how our blood carries oxygen, while kinetics help design faster-acting medicines.
Carbonated drinks rely on equilibrium between dissolved and escaping carbon dioxide.
Catalytic converters in cars speed up reactions that reduce pollution.
Chemical equilibrium is about balance in reactions; kinetics is about how quickly reactions happen.