
Define reaction quotient (Q).
Answer
457.8k+ views
Hint :Reaction quotient is the ratio of the concentration of the products and reactant in a reversible reaction. For equilibrium reaction it is equal to the equilibrium constant. It may be greater than 1 or less than depending on the concentration of products and reactant.
Complete Step By Step Answer:
In thermodynamics, the reaction quotient (Q) is a quantity that is the ratio of the concentration of the products and reactant in a reversible reaction. For equilibrium reaction it is equal to the equilibrium constant.
Let us take that,
For reversible reaction
where a, b, c, are the stoichiometric coefficients for the balanced reaction, we can calculate Q using the following equation which is as follows:
Now according to the LeChatelier’s principle, we know that when a pressure is applied that affects a reaction away from equilibrium, the reaction will try to adjust to get back to equilibrium.
The reaction quotient Q is a measure of the relative concentration of product and reactants in irreversible reactions.
Additional information:
The reaction quotient Q becomes equal to equilibrium constant K when equilibrium is achieved. Unlike K, which is based on equilibrium concentrations of a reaction, Q can be calculated whether we are at equilibrium or not.
The magnitude of reaction quotient denotes the relative concentration of product and reactants in reaction vessels.
If K > Q, then a reaction will move in forward direction, converting reactants into products.
If K < Q, the reaction will move in the reverse direction, converting products into reactants.
If Q = K, then the system is at equilibrium, the rate of conversion is zero.
Note :
It is important for students to be able to understand the concepts involved in Le Châtelier’s. Otherwise it would not be possible for them to be able solve the given question. Gibbs energy is also an important factor to determine the spontaneity of a reaction.
Complete Step By Step Answer:
In thermodynamics, the reaction quotient (Q) is a quantity that is the ratio of the concentration of the products and reactant in a reversible reaction. For equilibrium reaction it is equal to the equilibrium constant.
Let us take that,
For reversible reaction
where a, b, c, are the stoichiometric coefficients for the balanced reaction, we can calculate Q using the following equation which is as follows:
Now according to the LeChatelier’s principle, we know that when a pressure is applied that affects a reaction away from equilibrium, the reaction will try to adjust to get back to equilibrium.
The reaction quotient Q is a measure of the relative concentration of product and reactants in irreversible reactions.
Additional information:
The reaction quotient Q becomes equal to equilibrium constant K when equilibrium is achieved. Unlike K, which is based on equilibrium concentrations of a reaction, Q can be calculated whether we are at equilibrium or not.
The magnitude of reaction quotient denotes the relative concentration of product and reactants in reaction vessels.
If K > Q, then a reaction will move in forward direction, converting reactants into products.
If K < Q, the reaction will move in the reverse direction, converting products into reactants.
If Q = K, then the system is at equilibrium, the rate of conversion is zero.
Note :
It is important for students to be able to understand the concepts involved in Le Châtelier’s. Otherwise it would not be possible for them to be able solve the given question. Gibbs energy is also an important factor to determine the spontaneity of a reaction.
Latest Vedantu courses for you
Grade 6 | CBSE | SCHOOL | English
Vedantu 6 Pro Course (2025-26)
School Full course for CBSE students
₹45,300 per year
Recently Updated Pages
Master Class 11 Accountancy: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 Social Science: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 Economics: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 Physics: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Master Class 11 Biology: Engaging Questions & Answers for Success

Class 11 Question and Answer - Your Ultimate Solutions Guide

Trending doubts
Explain why it is said like that Mock drill is use class 11 social science CBSE

The non protein part of an enzyme is a A Prosthetic class 11 biology CBSE

Which of the following blood vessels in the circulatory class 11 biology CBSE

What is a zygomorphic flower Give example class 11 biology CBSE

1 ton equals to A 100 kg B 1000 kg C 10 kg D 10000 class 11 physics CBSE

The deoxygenated blood from the hind limbs of the frog class 11 biology CBSE
