Chapter 13: Fundamental Equilibrium Concepts

equilibrium

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

equilibrium constant (K)

value of the reaction quotient for a system at equilibrium; may be expressed using concentrations (K_c) or partial pressures (K_p)

heterogeneous equilibria

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

homogeneous equilibria

equilibria in which all reactants and products occupy the same phase

law of mass action

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

Le Châtelier’s principle

an equilibrium subjected to stress will shift in a way to counter the stress and re-establish equilibrium

reaction quotient (Q)

mathematical function describing the relative amounts of reactants and products in a reaction mixture; may be expressed in terms of concentrations (Q_c) or pressures (Q_p)

reversible reaction

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