Module 3 Periodic Table &

Energy
Module 3.2: Physical
Chemistry
3.2.3 – Chemical equilibrium
The equilibrium constant Kc – Part 1
Learning Objectives
 Learners should be able to demonstrate and apply their knowledge
and understanding of:

f) expressions for the equilibrium constant, Kc , for

homogeneous reactions and calculations of the
equilibrium constant, Kc , from provided equilibrium
concentrations

g) estimation of the position of equilibrium from the

magnitude of Kc.
Characteristics of Equilibrium State
 Equilibrium only established in a closed system.
Energy but not matter can be exchanged with
surroundings.

 Equilbrium approached from either direction.

 Equilibrium is a dynamic state. Rate in both directions

must be the same.

 Dynamic Equilibrium stable under fixed conditions

(but sensitive to changes in temp, pH & pressure)

 Le Chatelier’s Principle.
The equilibrium law
 Relative proportions of reactants and products present
at equilibrium.

 [A], [B], [C] and [D] – equilibrium concentrations of

reactants and products.
 Indices a,b,c and d – stoichiometric numbers in the
balanced chemical reaction.
 At equilibrium relative proportions do not change –
results in constant Kc.
Approaching equilibrium

Colourless Brown

Initially
 N O molecules decompose into NO .
2 4 2

 Rate of forward reaction fast.

 Very few molecules of NO2 reverse reaction

slow.
Approaching equilibrium

Colourless Brown

As the reaction proceeds

 Now fewer N O molecules available to
2 4
decompose into NO2.

 Rate of forward reaction decreases.

 More molecules of NO2 reverse reaction

increases.
Approaching equilibrium

Colourless Brown

At equilibrium
 Eventually forward reaction takes place at

exactly the same rate as the reverse

reaction.

 Dynamic equilibrium established.

 Concentrations of reactants and products

now remain constant.
Approaching equilibrium

Colourless Brown
Writing expressions for Kc
 At equilibrium concentrations of NO2 and N2O4
are constant.
 Write equilibrium expression for the following

reactions:
Units for Kc
Kc consolidation
 Share with your partner what you understand
about the equilibrium constant Kc and the
units of Kc. Use the mini-whiteboards to help
you.
 Be prepared to share with the class
The significance of a Kc
value
K – mathematical expression of the ratio of
c
products:reactants.
 Indicates the extent of a chemical reaction.

If the amount of products is

equal to the reactants then Kc = 1

Indicates the position of equilibrium

is halfway between reactants and products
The significance of a Kc
value
Products favoured: K > 1
c

 Reactants favoured: Kc < 1

Determining Kc from equilibrium
concentrations
 Hydrogen, Iodine, Hydrogen iodide equilibrium.

 Calculate Kc and work out the units.

Questions
Answers
Questions
Answers