Q is the reaction quotient Gives the condition of the reaction at any point during the reaction. [X] o indicates the initial concentration of a species

Q is the reaction quotient is expressed the same as K [Products] coeff [Reactants] coeff At equilibrium K = Q

Reactants Products Reactants Products Reactants Products Think of the reaction like sand in an hourglass. It can be tipped to run one way or the other.

Reactants Products At EQUILIBRIUM the forward reaction will equal the reverse reaction

Reactants Products At EQUILIBRIUM K = Q

Reactants Products So if K is larger than Q which way do we need to “tip” the reaction to make them equal?

Reactants Products So if K is larger than Q which way do we need to “tip” the reaction to make them equal? Tip towards Q, PRODUCTS. The reaction favors products.

Reactants Products Reactants Products What if K is smaller than Q which way do we need to “tip” the reaction to make them equal? Tip towards K. The reaction favors reactants.

Reactants Products When Equilibrium is reached K = Q Forward and reverse are equal.