What is a chemical reaction called if the products can regenerate the reactants?

A chemical reaction where the products can regenerate the reactants is referred to as a reversible reaction. In such reactions, the process can proceed in both the forward and reverse directions, allowing the products to convert back into reactants under suitable conditions. This dynamic equilibrium is a key feature of reversible reactions, meaning that the concentrations of reactants and products can fluctuate over time but will eventually reach a point where their amounts remain constant if left undisturbed.

This concept is vital in various fields, especially in biochemical pathways where enzymes facilitate reversible reactions, enabling the physical system to adjust dynamically to changes in conditions, such as temperature or concentration. In contrast, irreversible reactions proceed in one direction only, resulting in the formation of products that cannot revert to the original reactants under normal circumstances. Therefore, recognizing reversible reactions is essential in understanding both theoretical and practical applications in analytical chemistry.