1. What is the Equilibrium Constant?

The equilibrium constant (K) is a quantitative measure of the position of equilibrium in a chemical reaction. It represents the ratio of product concentrations to reactant concentrations, each raised to the power of their stoichiometric coefficients.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the equilibrium constant formula:

Where:

• \( [C], [D] \) — Concentrations of products (M)
• \( c, d \) — Stoichiometric coefficients of products
• \( [A], [B] \) — Concentrations of reactants (M)
• \( a, b \) — Stoichiometric coefficients of reactants

Explanation: The equilibrium constant expresses the extent to which a reaction proceeds to completion at equilibrium.

3. Importance of Equilibrium Constant Calculation

Details: The equilibrium constant is fundamental in predicting reaction direction, calculating equilibrium concentrations, and understanding chemical equilibria in various systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter concentrations in molarity (M) and stoichiometric coefficients as unitless values. All values must be non-negative.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does the magnitude of K indicate?
A: K > 1 favors products, K < 1 favors reactants, and K = 1 indicates equal concentrations of reactants and products at equilibrium.

Q2: How does temperature affect K?
A: The equilibrium constant is temperature-dependent. For endothermic reactions, K increases with temperature; for exothermic reactions, K decreases.

Q3: What are the units of K?
A: The units depend on the specific reaction stoichiometry. K may be unitless or have various concentration units.

Q4: Can K be negative?
A: No, equilibrium constants are always positive values as they represent ratios of concentrations.

Q5: How is K related to the reaction quotient Q?
A: Q has the same form as K but uses initial concentrations. Comparing Q and K predicts the direction the reaction will proceed to reach equilibrium.