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Chemical equilibrium laboratory

Compare Q with K and apply concentration, pressure, temperature and catalyst stresses.

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Scientific learning path

  1. 01UnderstandLive
  2. 02ExploreLive
  3. 03ExperimentLive
  4. 04ObserveLive
  5. 05ExplainLive
  6. 06ApplyLive
  7. 07TestLive
Explanation mode

Reactants

forward ↔ reverse

Products

Description of this simulation

Q = 1.000, K = 4.000; the mixture responds in the forward direction and the selected stress predicts a forward shift.

Quick test · 3 questions
1. Which statement is evidence from this simulation?
2. How should you test the effect of one control?
3. Why read the model notes?
Q
1.0000
K
4.0000
Net reaction direction
forward
Predicted equilibrium shift
forward
Does this stress change K?
No

Learning guide

Learning objective
Use Q and K to predict direction, then distinguish composition changes from changes to K.
Core equation
Q = [products]^ν/[reactants]^ν; compare Q with K
Why the result changes
The system consumes an imposed concentration or pressure change; only temperature changes the equilibrium constant.
Try this challenge
Add a catalyst and verify that neither the equilibrium position nor K changes.
Sources
IUPAC Gold Book; Atkins' Physical Chemistry

What this model shows — and what it simplifies

Educational Model

Q is calculated from the current composition; K belongs to a stated reaction at a stated temperature.

Where do we see this in real life?

Industrial reactors balance equilibrium yield against rate, energy use and safe operating pressure.

Explain this result

Scientific review record

Building
Module version
v1 bundled
Published
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Last reviewed
Not yet verified
Academic level
School
Reviewer
Not publicly assigned

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