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Equilibrium Constant

Definition

The equilibrium constant (K) is a number that expresses how far a chemical equation proceeds forward towards products at equilibrium conditions.

Analogy

Consider balancing on one foot. If you lean too much on one side, you'll fall over, but if you find just right balance point, you can stay upright indefinitely - this balance point represents equilibrium constant!

Related terms

Le Chatelier’s Principle: The principle that states if a system at equilibrium is disturbed by changing the conditions, the position of equilibrium moves to counteract the change.

Reaction Quotient (Q): A measure of the relative amounts of products and reactants present during a reaction at a particular point in time.

Chemical Equilibrium: The state in which both reactants and products are present in concentrations which have no further tendency to change with time.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.