Skip to main content
Ch.15 - Chemical Equilibrium
Chapter 15, Problem 42a

(a) If Qc > Kc, how must the reaction proceed to reach equilibrium?

Verified Solution

Video duration:
1m
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Reaction Quotient (Qc)

The reaction quotient, Qc, is a measure of the relative concentrations of products and reactants at any point in a reaction. It is calculated using the same expression as the equilibrium constant (Kc) but with the current concentrations instead of equilibrium concentrations. Qc helps determine the direction in which a reaction will proceed to reach equilibrium.
Recommended video:
Guided course
00:49
Reaction Quotient Q

Equilibrium Constant (Kc)

The equilibrium constant, Kc, is a value that expresses the ratio of the concentrations of products to reactants at equilibrium for a given reaction at a specific temperature. It is a fixed value for a particular reaction under defined conditions. Comparing Qc to Kc allows us to predict the direction of the reaction: if Qc < Kc, the reaction will proceed forward, while if Qc > Kc, it will shift backward.
Recommended video:
Guided course
03:20
Equilibrium Constant Expressions

Le Chatelier's Principle

Le Chatelier's Principle states that if a system at equilibrium is disturbed by a change in concentration, temperature, or pressure, the system will adjust to counteract the disturbance and restore a new equilibrium. In the context of Qc and Kc, if Qc > Kc, the system will shift to the left, favoring the formation of reactants to reduce the concentration of products and achieve equilibrium.
Recommended video:
Guided course
07:32
Le Chatelier's Principle