What characteristics define a system at equilibrium?

Nevermind! I found the answer...but cam you still help with this question:

how does a system at equilibrium respond to a stress and what factors are considered to be stresses on an equilibrium system?

A system at equilibrium, when stressed, reacts in such a way as to relieve the stress. Changes in concentration, pressure, temperature are stresses.

A system at equilibrium is characterized by several key features:

1. Stability: The system remains stable over time, with no net change or overall tendency to change. It is in a state of balance.

2. Constant properties: The system's properties, such as temperature, pressure, and concentration, remain constant throughout the system.

3. Dynamic balance: Although there is no net change in the system, there are still constant forward and backward reactions occurring at equal rates. This means that the system is in a state of dynamic balance, with opposing reactions happening simultaneously.

To determine whether a system is at equilibrium, you can use the concept of the equilibrium condition. This condition is based on the principle of the forward and backward reactions occurring at equal rates. It can be defined mathematically using the equilibrium constant (K).

The equilibrium constant (K) is calculated as the ratio of the concentrations of the products to the concentrations of the reactants, each raised to their respective stoichiometric coefficients. If the value of K is constant over time, the system is at equilibrium.

To determine the exact state of equilibrium, you can compare the actual concentrations of the reactants and products to their equilibrium concentrations. If the actual concentrations are equal to the equilibrium concentrations, the system is at equilibrium.

In summary, a system at equilibrium is characterized by stability, constant properties, and dynamic balance. You can determine whether a system is at equilibrium by applying the equilibrium condition, using the equilibrium constant (K), and comparing the actual concentrations to the equilibrium concentrations.