Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Equilibrium is a state in which opposing forces or influences are balanced. In biological systems, it often refers to the balance of chemical concentrations within cells and ecosystems.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
In chemical reactions, equilibrium is reached when the rate of the forward reaction equals the rate of the reverse reaction.
Dynamic equilibrium in ecosystems involves a balance between organisms and their environment, including nutrient cycles and energy flow.
Equilibrium does not mean that reactants and products are equal in concentration but that their rates of formation and decomposition are constant.
Le Chatelier's Principle states that if an external change is applied to a system at equilibrium, the system will adjust to partially counteract the change.
Homeostasis in living organisms is an example of dynamic equilibrium where internal conditions remain stable despite external changes.
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Related terms
Dynamic Equilibrium: A state of balance between continuing processes.
The ability of an organism to maintain internal stability.
Le Chatelier's Principle: A principle stating that if a constraint is applied to a system in equilibrium, the system will adjust to counteract the constraint.