1. What is Equilibrium Constant?

The equilibrium constant (K) is a value that expresses the ratio of product concentrations to reactant concentrations at chemical equilibrium, with each concentration raised to the power of its stoichiometric coefficient. It quantifies the position of equilibrium for a reversible chemical reaction.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the equilibrium constant formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The equilibrium constant is calculated by dividing the product of the equilibrium concentrations of the products by the product of the equilibrium concentrations of the reactants, each raised to the power of their stoichiometric coefficients.

3. Importance of Equilibrium Constant

Details: The equilibrium constant provides crucial information about the position of equilibrium. A large K (>1) favors product formation, while a small K (<1) favors reactants. It helps predict reaction direction and extent under given conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter concentrations of products and reactants in mol/L. Reactant concentration must be greater than zero. For reactions with coefficients, raise each concentration to the power of its coefficient before multiplying.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a K value of 1 mean?
A: A K value of 1 means the concentrations of products and reactants are equal at equilibrium.

Q2: How does temperature affect K?
A: K is temperature-dependent. For exothermic reactions, K decreases with increasing temperature, while for endothermic reactions, K increases with temperature.

Q3: What's the difference between Kc and Kp?
A: Kc uses molar concentrations, while Kp uses partial pressures for gas-phase reactions. They're related by the ideal gas law.

Q4: Can K be negative?
A: No, K is always positive since concentrations are always positive values.

Q5: What does a very large K value indicate?
A: A very large K (>10³) indicates the reaction strongly favors product formation at equilibrium.