10 Questions
A change in temperature has no effect on a system in equilibrium.
False
If the concentration of a reactant is increased, the system will react to produce more of that reactant.
False
A decrease in volume will always shift the equilibrium to the right.
False
An endothermic reaction is one that releases heat.
False
Le Châtelier's Principle states that a system at equilibrium will always shift to the left when disturbed.
False
An increase in pressure will always shift the equilibrium to the right.
False
The equilibrium constant changes when a system is disturbed by a change in concentration or pressure.
False
A change in concentration of a product has no effect on a system in equilibrium.
False
Le Châtelier's Principle only applies to changes in concentration.
False
If the concentration of a product is decreased, the system will react to consume more of that product.
False
Study Notes
Le Chatelier's Principle
- Le Chatelier's principle states that if a system at equilibrium is disturbed by a change in concentration, pressure, or temperature, the system will shift its equilibrium position to counter the effect of the disturbance.
Changes in Reactant or Product Concentration
- Increasing the concentration of reactants at equilibrium: the system relieves the stress by increasing the rate of the forward reaction, forming more product until equilibrium is reached again.
- Decreasing the concentration of reactants or removing reactants at equilibrium: the system shifts in the direction of the reactants until equilibrium is reached again.
- Increasing the concentration of products at equilibrium: the system shifts in the direction of the reactants, converting some products to reactants.
- Decreasing the concentration of products or removing products at equilibrium: the system shifts in the direction of the products.
General Rule for Changes in Concentration
- Le Chatelier's principle: an increase in concentration is relieved when the system shifts in the direction with the smaller number of moles.
Changes in Volume and Pressure
- Increasing the volume (decreasing the pressure) of a system at equilibrium: the system shifts in the direction with the greater number of moles to reestablish equilibrium.
- When the reaction has the same number of moles in the reactants and products, a volume change does not affect the equilibrium mixture.
Key Points
- A system at dynamic equilibrium is in a state of balance.
- Changes in the concentration of reactants or products cause a shift in equilibrium until a new state of balance is attained.
- The shift in equilibrium does not change the equilibrium constant.
- The shift in equilibrium will be in the direction that minimizes the effect of the change.
Test your understanding of Le Chatelier's principle and how it applies to equilibrium systems. Learn how changes in concentration of reactants affect the equilibrium and how the system responds to stress. Practice your knowledge of chemical equilibrium and reaction rates.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
