Question

a reaction that is spontaneous as written____
○ a) is very rapid
○ b) will proceed without outside intervention
○ c) is also spontaneous in the reverse direction
○ d) has an equilibrium position that lies far to the left

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option based on the definition of a spontaneous reaction:

• Option a: Spontaneity does not relate to reaction rate (speed); it concerns the direction of the reaction, so a is incorrect.
• Option b: A spontaneous reaction, by definition, proceeds without outside intervention (like adding energy), so this matches the definition.
• Option c: If a reaction is spontaneous in one direction, it is non - spontaneous in the reverse direction (due to the second law of thermodynamics and Gibbs free energy principles), so c is incorrect.
• Option d: A spontaneous reaction (as written) has an equilibrium position far to the right (favors products), not left, so d is incorrect.

Answer:

b) Will proceed without outside intervention