at equilibrium

USAGE SUMMARY

"at equilibrium" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a state of balance or stability, or a situation in which opposing forces are equal and in equilibrium. For example: "The two sides have reached an agreement and are now at equilibrium."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We were clearly not at equilibrium.

The New York Times

At equilibrium, r1 = r2, therefore: The subscript e represents conditions at equilibrium.

Encyclopedia Britannica

amount of biosorption at equilibrium (mg/g).

Chemistry Central Journal

Adsorption capacity at equilibrium (mg/g).

International Journal of Industrial Chemistry

Concentration of fluoride at equilibrium (mg/L).

Applied Water Science

The relative surface coverage at equilibrium.

Applied Water Science

Pure bundling arises at equilibrium otherwise.

SERIEs

Concentrations of MB were measured at equilibrium.

Journal of Nanostructure in Chemistry

Usage is about at equilibrium among younger age groups, Lipsman notes.

TechCrunch

Agricultural price supports keep prices about at equilibrium.

Forbes

Two phases were present at equilibrium under all conditions.

The Journal of Supercritical Fluids

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a system that has reached a stable and balanced state, use "at equilibrium" to clearly convey that opposing forces or processes are equal and unchanging.

Common error

Avoid using "at equilibrium" to describe a system that is merely stable but still subject to fluctuations. "At equilibrium" specifically implies a balance where there is no net change, not just a temporary stability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at equilibrium" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating a state of balance or stability. Ludwig shows examples in scientific, economic, and general contexts where systems have reached a point of no net change.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at equilibrium" is a prepositional phrase widely used to describe a state of balance or stability, particularly in scientific and technical contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently employed in describing systems where opposing forces are equal. Its prevalence in scientific literature, news articles, and even encyclopedias underscores its importance in conveying that a system has reached a stable condition with no net change. While alternatives like "in balance" and "in a steady state" exist, "at equilibrium" provides a specific and precise way to indicate this balanced state. Remember to use it when referring to a system that has truly reached a point of no net change, rather than just a temporary stability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in balance

Focuses more on the idea of opposing forces being equalized, often in a dynamic system.

in a steady state

Implies a condition where inputs equal outputs, maintaining a constant level over time.

in a stable condition

Emphasizes the resistance to change or disruption.

in homeostasis

Specifically refers to the maintenance of a stable internal environment in biological systems.

in a state of rest

Highlights the absence of movement or activity.

in a quiescent state

Suggests a temporary state of inactivity or dormancy.

at a standstill

Implies a complete cessation of progress or activity.

in a plateau

Indicates a level of stability after a period of growth or change.

in a flatline

Suggests a state of no change, often in a negative or critical context.

at a saturation point

Implies a state where no more of something can be absorbed or added.

FAQs

How is "at equilibrium" used in scientific contexts?

In science, "at equilibrium" describes a state where opposing reactions or processes occur at equal rates, resulting in no net change in concentrations or conditions. Examples include chemical equilibrium and thermal equilibrium.

What are some alternatives to using "at equilibrium"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives like "in balance", "in a steady state", or "in homeostasis". Each conveys a slightly different nuance of stability.

Is "in equilibrium" the same as "at equilibrium"?

While similar, "at equilibrium" often implies a specific point or condition of balance, whereas "in equilibrium" can suggest a more general state of being balanced over a period.

How does Le Chatelier's principle relate to systems "at equilibrium"?

Le Chatelier's principle states that if a change of condition is applied to a system "at equilibrium", the system will shift in a direction that relieves the stress. This principle is used to predict how a system will respond to disturbances.