Equilibrium the ultimate conversion

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    Equilibrium
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of chemical equilibrium and its relation to the maximum conversion of products in chemical reactions. Participants explore the implications of Le Chatelier's principle and the conditions under which equilibrium is established or exceeded.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why maximum conversion occurs at chemical equilibrium, suggesting that using Le Chatelier's principle could push the reaction towards products for higher conversion.
  • Another participant notes that Le Chatelier's principle leads to a new equilibrium, implying that the maximum conversion still holds under this principle.
  • A different viewpoint is raised, questioning whether it is possible to exceed equilibrium temporarily, suggesting that conversion could be higher during that time.
  • Another participant discusses the implications of Le Chatelier's principle in the context of exothermic reactions, raising concerns about resistance to change and its relation to the first law of thermodynamics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of equilibrium and the effects of Le Chatelier's principle, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully resolved the implications of exceeding equilibrium or the relationship between resistance to change and thermodynamic laws.

member 392791
Hello,

I am wondering conceptually why the maximum conversion of products is made at chemical equilibrium? I was thinking if you use le chatelier to push towards products, the conversion will be higher.

Sorry if this sounds too vague, my prof's lecture was called "Equilibrium: The ultimate conversion''
 
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Le Chatelier reaches a new equilibrium ... so the result still holds.
 
Didn't think about that, thank you. But can't you be past equilibrium, and during that time beyond equilibrium, the conversion is higher?
 
But what happens under le Chatelier? The principle is clear: their is a resistance to the change, and this resistance results in a new equilibrium.

Consider an exothermic reaction - there is a certain amount of heat given off. But if we add just a bit more of something and there was no resistance (i.e., le Chatelier fails!) then you would obtain more heat ... and add a bit more, and you get more heat ... seems like it cheats on the first law of thermodynamics!
 

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