Chemistry · University
Equilibrium, reaction quotient and Gibbs energy · revision notes
A dynamic chemical equilibrium has balanced forward and reverse rates under the specified conditions, not necessarily equal reactant and product amounts.
Key ideas and conditions
Equilibrium
A dynamic chemical equilibrium has balanced forward and reverse rates under the specified conditions, not necessarily equal reactant and product amounts.
Quotient
The reaction quotient Q uses current activities in the equilibrium expression. Comparing Q and K predicts the thermodynamic direction toward equilibrium.
Energy
For a specified reaction, ΔG=ΔG°+RT ln Q. At equilibrium ΔG=0 and Q=K, yielding ΔG°=−RT ln K.
Conditions
Standard-state conventions and temperature matter. A thermodynamically favoured direction does not establish a rapid reaction rate.
Explain without looking
- Explain why equilibrium does not imply all species have equal concentrations.
- At equilibrium, find ΔG for the reaction under the stated conditions.
Further reading and review references
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