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Sometimes, we have a reversible reaction that's not in equilibrium. So we have to compare the equilibrium constant to the reaction quotient. Remember, its formula is the same as the equilibrium constant. It's . Comparing the two will tell us our reaction's direction.
- The reaction favors the reactants' side.
- The forward reaction will dominate. Reactants will convert to products to reach equilibrium.
- The forward reaction's rate will exceed the reverse reaction's rate until equilibrium.
- The reaction favors the products' side.
- The reverse reaction will dominate. Products will convert to reactants to achieve equilibrium.
- The reverse reaction's rate will exceed the forward reaction's rate.
- The reaction is at equilibrium.
