Question

Are redox reactions reversible?

Answer 1

The reversibility of redox reaction is explained in following ways:

1. In a redox reaction, both oxidation and reduction occur simultaneously.
2. In other words, for redox reaction the reactant is converted into product and vice versa.
3. Therefore, in redox reaction when the formation of the product happens, the product molecules may collides with each other resulting in the formation of the reactant back.
4. In the below given example of daniel cell, the $\mathrm{Zn}$ is oxidized while $\mathrm{Cu}$ is reduced and $\mathrm{E}°\mathrm{cell}$ is positive.
5. But if the conditions become reverse, $\mathrm{E}°\mathrm{cell}$ becomes $-\mathrm{ve}$, the forward reaction becomes non spontaneous and reaction becomes reverse.
6. Hence, the redox reaction is reversible.

Therefore, the above points clearly explains the reversibility of redox reaction.