irreversible
Definition
Irreversible means that something cannot be changed back to its original state. This is in contrast to reversible changes, which can be changed back to their original state.
Irreversible changes are often caused by breaking chemical bonds. When chemical bonds are broken, the atoms or molecules that were bonded together can no longer be put back together in the same way. This is why irreversible changes are often permanent.
Some examples of irreversible changes include:
- Burning: When something burns, the chemical bonds in the material are broken and new chemical bonds are formed. This creates new substances that cannot be changed back to the original material.
- Rusting: When metal rusts, the iron in the metal reacts with oxygen in the air to form a new substance called rust. Rust is a different substance from iron, and it cannot be changed back to iron.
- Melting: When a solid melts, the chemical bonds in the solid are broken and the molecules in the solid are free to move around. This creates a new substance called a liquid, which cannot be changed back to the original solid.
How can the word be used?
The patient's condition is irreversible.
Different forms of the word
Adjective: irreversible.
Adverb: irreversibly.
Noun: irreversibility.
Etymology
The word "irreversible" comes from the Latin words "in" (meaning "not") and "reversus" (meaning "turned back"). So, the word "irreversible" literally means "not turned back".
Question
What does irreversible mean?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Define and explain the concept of irreversibility in chemical reactions. Provide examples of irreversible reactions, discussing the factors that contribute to their irreversibility.
Answer:
In chemistry, irreversible reactions are those that proceed only in one direction and cannot be easily reversed to reform the original reactants. They often involve the formation of a new substance with different properties, making it challenging to revert to the initial reactants.
An example of an irreversible reaction is the combustion of fuel, such as burning wood. When wood burns, it reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water vapour, along with releasing energy. This process is highly exothermic and cannot be reversed to reform the original wood and oxygen molecules.
Irreversible reactions are typically driven by factors like the release of a large amount of energy, the formation of stable products, or the removal of reaction products from the system. In the case of burning wood, the production of carbon dioxide and water vapour releases substantial heat, making the reaction energetically favourable in one direction.
Understanding irreversible reactions is crucial for various applications, including energy production, industrial processes, and waste treatment. The irreversibility of these reactions allows us to harness energy and create new materials. It also plays a role in maintaining equilibrium in dynamic systems, as certain reactions proceed only in the forward direction, contributing to the complexity and diversity of chemical processes in our world.