Fundamental Equilibrium Concepts

Question 1

Reversible Reactions

Answer 1

Chemical reaction that can proceed in both the forward and reverse directions under given conditions

Question 2

Equilibrium

Answer 2

State of a reversible reaction in which the forward and reverse processes occur at equal rates

Question 3

Reaction Quotient (Q)

Answer 3

Mathematical function describing the relative amounts of reactants and products in a reaction mixture; may be expressed in terms of concentrations (Qc) or pressures (Qp)

Question 4

Equilibrium Constant (K)

Answer 4

Value of the reaction quotient for a system at equilibrium; may be expressed using concentrations (Kc) or partial pressures (Kp)

Question 5

Law of Mass Action

Answer 5

When a reversible reaction has attained equilibrium at a given temperature, the reaction quotient remains constant

Question 6

Homogeneous Equilibrium

Answer 6

Equilibria in which all reactants and products occupy the same phase

Question 7

Heterogeneous Equilibrium

Answer 7

Equilibria in which reactants and products occupy two or more different phases

Question 8

La Chatelier’s Principle