For the reaction , the equilibrium constant is . At a given time, the composition of the reaction mi — Chemical Equilibrium Chemistry Question
Question
For the reaction $A(g) \rightleftharpoons B(g) + C(g)$, the equilibrium constant $K_c$ is $2 \times 10^{-3}$. At a given time, the composition of the reaction mixture is $[A] = [B] = [C] = 3 \times 10^{-4}\text{ M}$. What is the value of $(Q_c \times 10^4)$ at this instant?
💡 Solution & Explanation
The reaction quotient is $Q_c = \frac{[B][C]}{[A]}$. Substituting the values: $Q_c = \frac{(3 \times 10^{-4})(3 \times 10^{-4})}{3 \times 10^{-4}} = 3 \times 10^{-4}$. We are asked for $Q_c \times 10^4 = (3 \times 10^{-4}) \times 10^4 = 3$. Since $3 \times 10^{-4} < 2 \times 10^{-3}$, the reaction proceeds forward.