1. What is the Reaction Quotient?

The reaction quotient (Q) measures the relative amounts of products and reactants present during a reaction at a particular point in time. It helps determine the direction in which a reaction will proceed to reach equilibrium.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the reaction quotient formula:

Where:

• \( [Products] \) — Concentration of products (mol/L)
• \( [Reactants] \) — Concentration of reactants (mol/L)

Explanation: The quotient compares the product of the concentrations of reaction products to the product of the concentrations of reaction reactants.

3. Importance of Q Calculation

Details: Comparing Q to the equilibrium constant (K) predicts reaction direction:

• Q < K: Reaction proceeds forward (more products form)
• Q = K: System is at equilibrium
• Q > K: Reaction proceeds in reverse (more reactants form)

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter concentrations in mol/L. Reactants concentration must be greater than zero. For reactions with multiple species, multiply concentrations raised to their stoichiometric coefficients.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is Q different from K?
A: Q describes any state of the reaction, while K describes only the equilibrium state.

Q2: What units does Q have?
A: Q is dimensionless, though it's calculated from concentration terms.

Q3: How do I use Q for gaseous reactions?
A: For gases, use partial pressures instead of concentrations in the Q expression.

Q4: What if my reaction has coefficients?
A: Raise each concentration to the power of its stoichiometric coefficient in the balanced equation.

Q5: Can Q be negative?
A: No, since concentrations are always positive values, Q cannot be negative.