Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the formulation of an equilibrium expression for a chemical reaction involving liquids. Participants explore the implications of including or excluding certain phases in the equilibrium constant expression, particularly focusing on the treatment of liquids and solids in the context of equilibrium chemistry.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- One participant suggests that there may not be an equilibrium expression for the reaction since all reactants and products are liquids, questioning the validity of including them.
- Another participant briefly mentions solids and immiscible liquids, implying a distinction in how different phases are treated.
- A suggestion is made to use square brackets in expressions to denote molarities, indicating a focus on proper notation.
- It is proposed that the masses of reactants should be converted into moles to find initial concentrations, with a note that the liquids are dissolved in a solvent, thus becoming aqueous.
- One participant asserts that there is always an expression, explaining that materials with certain properties are excluded because their activities equal 1, and clarifying that typically only gases and aqueous solutions are included in equilibrium expressions.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on whether an equilibrium expression can be formulated for the reaction, with some arguing for its existence based on the nature of the reactants and others questioning it due to the phases involved. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.
Contextual Notes
There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the phases of the reactants and products, as well as the definitions of activities in equilibrium expressions. The discussion does not resolve these complexities.
