What does it indicate when the reaction quotient Q equals the equilibrium constant K?

What does it indicate when the reaction quotient Q equals the equilibrium constant K?

• A. The reaction is proceeding forward.
• B. The chemical reaction is at equilibrium.
• C. The reaction has no products.
• D. The reactants are favored in the reaction.

Answer: (B)

When the reaction quotient Q equals the equilibrium constant K, it indicates that the concentrations of reactants and products are in a state of balance, meaning that the rates of the forward and reverse reactions are equal. This state of balance signifies that the system has reached chemical equilibrium. At equilibrium, the concentrations of the reactants and products remain constant over time, although the reactions continue to occur in both directions at equal rates. This understanding is crucial in predicting how changes in conditions (like concentration, temperature, or pressure) will affect the position of equilibrium and consequently the amounts of reactants and products present in the system. Thus, when Q = K, it confirms that the chemical reaction is at equilibrium.

When the reaction quotient Q equals the equilibrium constant K, it indicates that the concentrations of reactants and products are in a state of balance, meaning that the rates of the forward and reverse reactions are equal. This state of balance signifies that the system has reached chemical equilibrium. At equilibrium, the concentrations of the reactants and products remain constant over time, although the reactions continue to occur in both directions at equal rates. This understanding is crucial in predicting how changes in conditions (like concentration, temperature, or pressure) will affect the position of equilibrium and consequently the amounts of reactants and products present in the system. Thus, when Q = K, it confirms that the chemical reaction is at equilibrium.