Dictionary > Equilibrium constant

Equilibrium constant

Definition
noun
The ratio in which the product of the concentrations of the products divided by the product of the concentrations of the reactants is constant at a given temperature.
Supplement
The equilibrium constant remains constant provided that the temperature is unchanged. Its value is not affected by a change in pressure or the use or the lack of use of a catalyst in the reaction. If the value is greater than 1, it means the concentrations of the products are greater than those of the reactants, and forward reaction is favoured. If the value is less than 1, it means the concentrations of the reactants are greater than the products, and the reverse reaction is favoured. If the value is 1, it means neither the forward nor the reverse reaction is favoured.
Symbol: Keq or K
See also: chemical equilibrium, free energy.

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