What is meant by 'dynamic equilibrium' in the context of kinetics?

Dynamic equilibrium in kinetics refers to a state where the rate of the forward reaction equals the rate of the reverse reaction.

In more detail, dynamic equilibrium is a key concept in the study of chemical kinetics, which is the branch of chemistry that deals with the rates of chemical reactions. It is a state of balance achieved by a reversible reaction when the rate of the forward reaction (where reactants are converted into products) is exactly equal to the rate of the reverse reaction (where products are converted back into reactants).

It's important to note that dynamic equilibrium does not mean that the amounts of reactants and products are equal. Rather, it means that their concentrations have stabilised and remain constant over time because the reactions are happening at the same rate. This is why it's called a 'dynamic' equilibrium - because there is constant activity and change happening at the molecular level, even though there is no observable change at the macroscopic level.

The concept of dynamic equilibrium is central to understanding many chemical systems, particularly in the field of physical chemistry. It is also crucial in the study of acid-base reactions, solubility, and reaction mechanisms.

The conditions for dynamic equilibrium to be established are that the system must be closed (no matter can enter or leave the system), and the temperature must remain constant. If these conditions are not met, the equilibrium will be disturbed, leading to a shift in the concentrations of reactants and products until a new equilibrium is established. This is described by Le Chatelier's Principle, which states that a system in equilibrium will respond to a disturbance by counteracting the change.

In summary, dynamic equilibrium is a state of balance in a reversible chemical reaction where the forward and reverse reactions occur at the same rate, resulting in constant concentrations of reactants and products. It is a dynamic process, with continuous molecular activity, and is influenced by changes in conditions such as temperature and pressure.