This is an example of a chemical equilibrium. In this reversible reaction, dinitrogen tetroxide (N₂O₄) breaks down into two nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) molecules, and vice versa.
Think of this like a dance floor at a party. The dance floor represents our reaction, and the dancers represent our molecules. Some people (N₂O₄) prefer to dance alone while others (NO₂) prefer dancing in pairs. As the music plays (the reaction proceeds), some solo dancers pair up while some pairs break apart and go solo again - just like N₂O₄ breaking down into 2 NO₂ or 2 NO₂ combining back into N₂O₄.
Reversible Reaction: A chemical reaction where the reactants form products that, in turn, react together to give the reactants back.
Dynamic Equilibrium: A state of balance between continuing processes.
Homogeneous Equilibrium: An equilibrium system where all reacting species are in the same phase.
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