Introduction

When you brush your teeth you probably do so to remove harmful plaque that can cause tooth decay. Did you realize that brushing your teeth contributes to an equilibrium system? Most types of toothpaste and dental rinse contain fluoride, an important component in the process of building dental enamel—the outermost tooth layer made of hydroxyapatite and fibrous protein. The layer of enamel is part of a chemical equilibrium involving the processes of enamel formation and erosion. The chemical equilibrium is shown in the reaction,

 

     5 Ca2+(aq) + 3 PO43–(aq) + F–(aq) Ca5(PO4)3F(s)

 

Can you explain why dentists often ask their patients to use toothpastes and dental rinses containing fluoride? How would you incorporate your understanding of equilibrium to explain this practice?

 

In the previous lesson, you learned about the three types of chemical equilibria. In this lesson, you will study chemical systems in equilibrium in greater depth, and you will investigate the characteristics of these systems.

 

Consider the following question as you complete this lesson:

  • Are all equilibrium states similar?
  • How do you solve for various states of equilibrium?
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