Equilibrium Constant Formula:
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The equilibrium constant (Kc) is a ratio of the concentrations of products to reactants at equilibrium, with each concentration raised to the power of its stoichiometric coefficient. It indicates the extent of a chemical reaction at equilibrium.
The calculator uses the equilibrium constant formula:
Where:
Explanation: Kc is dimensionless and provides information about the position of equilibrium. A large Kc (>1) favors products, while a small Kc (<1) favors reactants.
Details: Kc is fundamental in chemical equilibrium studies, helping predict reaction direction, extent, and the effect of changing conditions (Le Chatelier's Principle).
Tips: Enter equilibrium concentrations of products and reactants in mol/L. Reactant concentration must be greater than zero.
Q1: What's the difference between Kc and Kp?
A: Kc uses concentrations (mol/L) while Kp uses partial pressures (atm) for gaseous reactions.
Q2: How do stoichiometric coefficients affect Kc?
A: Coefficients become exponents in the equilibrium expression. For aA + bB ⇌ cC + dD, Kc = ([C]^c[D]^d)/([A]^a[B]^b).
Q3: Does Kc change with temperature?
A: Yes, Kc is temperature-dependent. It changes if temperature changes but remains constant for a given temperature regardless of concentration changes.
Q4: What does it mean when Kc = 1?
A: When Kc = 1, the concentrations of products and reactants are equal at equilibrium.
Q5: Can Kc be negative?
A: No, Kc is always positive since concentrations are always positive values.