In the atmosphere, under the effect of ultraviolet rays, oxygen molecules combine to form ozone molecules, and ozone molecules also photodissociate to form oxygen molecules. Which of the following would be observed if this reaction is in dynamic equilibrium?
Answer
A
The rates of the forward and reverse reactions will remain the same.
B
The concentration of ozone will decrease.
C
The rates of the forward and reverse reactions will increase.
D
The concentration of oxygen will increase.
Explanation
At dynamic equilibrium, the forward reaction forming ozone and the reverse reaction breaking ozone down continue, but at equal rates. As a result, the amounts of oxygen and ozone stay constant overall, rather than steadily increasing or decreasing. The correct choice is A, the rates of the forward and reverse reactions will remain the same.
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