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Magnitude of the Equilibrium Constant

The equilibrium constant (K) measures the extent of a reaction at equilibrium. Its magnitude indicates whether reactants or products are favored.

Key Concepts​

  • K >> 1 → products favored; reaction lies far to the right
  • K << 1 → reactants favored; reaction lies far to the left
  • K ≈ 1 → significant amounts of both reactants and products present
  • Calculated from: K = [products]^coeff / [reactants]^coeff

Example​

For N₂ + 3 H₂ ⇌ 2 NH₃:

  • If K = 10⁵ → mostly NH₃ at equilibrium
  • If K = 10⁻³ → mostly N₂ and H₂ remain

Factors Affecting K​

  • Temperature: Changes K for endothermic or exothermic reactions
  • Pressure & Concentration: Do not affect K, only the reaction quotient Q

Importance​

  • Predicts composition at equilibrium
  • Helps optimize industrial reactions
  • Essential for understanding chemical equilibria and Le Châtelier’s Principle

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