Introducing students to a wider context enriches the study of equilibria by showing them the wider implications of theoretical ideas and also provides links to the people involved in the development of these ideas. The articles below explore some of the issues raised in this topic.

Catalysts for a green industry

Tony Hargreaves reveals the scope of modern catalysis and how crucial it will be for chemists to achieve their environmental objectives. 

The father of physical chemistry

In this detailed biographical note, Michael Sutton describes the life and work of Wilhelm Ostwald, who was awarded a Nobel prize for his work on the effect of catalysis on equilibria.

Understanding equilibrium: a delicate balance

Steve Hacker points out that Le Chatelier's Principle is a description, not an explanation of change in equilibrium position.