Equilibrium and c is because ice cube is water so it will melt

In summary, the conversation discusses different systems and their equilibrium states. The participants consider systems a, b, c, and d and discuss which ones are in equilibrium. The conclusion is that systems a, b, c, and d are all in equilibrium because they are all in a closed container or environment that does not allow for any changes to the system. Additionally, the participants consider the temperature of ice in system c and come to the understanding that it is also in equilibrium.
  • #1
aarietta
6
0
Hello there,
I am unsure about the following question and would like some help to understand please! :smile:

Consider the following systems:
a) a container that is half filled with alcohol, stoppered and allowed to stand for several days
b) crystals of KMnO4 that are dissolved in water until the water becomes a uniform purple colour and a constant amount of crystal remainds in the container
c) an ice cube in a beaker of water in a normal classroom
d) moth balls that are placed in an empty flash that is then stoppered and alllowed to stand for several days

Which of the above are in an equilibrium state?
i) a and b
ii) a,b,d
iii) b,c
iv) a,b,c,d


At this moment, I am picking IV because A and D are stoppered in the flask so it would eventually reach equilibrium since no vapour is allowed to escape. As for B, when the crystals mix in with water it causes stress to the equilibrium but then it would eventually fix itself back to equilibrium and c is because ice cube is water so it will melt into water, which causes no change to the equilibrium.

Thank you!
 
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  • #2
You may wish to re consider system c. What is the temperature of ice? What is average room temperature?
 
  • #3
Ohh... I see!
Thank you
 
  • #4
aarietta said:
Ohh... I see!
Thank you
No problem :smile:
 

1. What is equilibrium and how does it relate to the melting of ice cubes?

Equilibrium is a state of balance between two or more opposing forces or processes. In the case of melting ice cubes, equilibrium is achieved when the rate of melting is equal to the rate of freezing, resulting in a constant temperature and no further change in the state of the ice cube.

2. Why does the melting of ice cubes result in a "c" shape?

The "c" shape of melting ice cubes is a result of the density difference between water and ice. As the ice cube melts, the denser liquid water sinks to the bottom of the cube, creating the "c" shape.

3. Is the melting of ice cubes an endothermic or exothermic process?

The melting of ice cubes is an endothermic process, meaning it requires energy in the form of heat to break the bonds between water molecules and change its state from solid to liquid.

4. Why does an ice cube placed in a glass of water eventually reach a constant temperature?

When an ice cube is placed in a glass of water, heat from the surrounding water is transferred to the ice cube. As the ice cube melts, it absorbs this heat energy, causing its temperature to rise. Eventually, the rate of heat transfer and melting will reach an equilibrium point, resulting in a constant temperature.

5. Can the equilibrium point of melting ice cubes be affected by external factors?

Yes, external factors such as temperature and pressure can affect the equilibrium point of melting ice cubes. For example, a higher room temperature will result in a faster rate of melting, while a lower room temperature will slow down the melting process and potentially change the equilibrium point.

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