Equilibrium Flashcards
(13 cards)
What does it mean when a reaction is at equilibrium?
The forward and reverse reactions occur at the same rate, the reactants and products are approximately constant.
In a graph, you can determine equilibrium when no observable change is seen
What is the equilibrium constant?
The equilibrium constant is K. Which represents the ratio of reactants to products, temperature specific, and reaction specific (initial and final states).
- It can be used to determine whether the formation of products or reactants is favoured
Does k have units?
No, it is unitless.
What does the magnitude of k imply?
The larger the value of k, the further it has gone in the forward direction.
What factor must be the same when comparing equilibrium constants to each other?
The temperature must be the same
What does it mean if k > 1 and what would the graph look like?
Products are favoured. Products would be above reactants.
What does it mean if k < 1?
Reactants are favoured. Reactants would be above products.
What is the reactant quotient?
It has the same form as the equilibrium constant, but it can be measured at any time during the reaction (does not have to be at equilibrium). However when Q DOES reach equilibrium, Q = K
What happens when Q > K?
Q will decrease as the reaction progresses. More reactants needed to reach equilibrium therefore the reaction moves in the reverse direction
What happens with Q < K?
Q increases as the reaction progresses. More products needed to reach equilibrium therefore the reaction moves in the forward direction
What are the steps to determine which way a reaction will proceed?
- Calculate the reaction quotient (Qc or Qp)
- Compare the Q value to K
In an exothermic reaction as temperature decreases, what happens to k?
K increases
