Equilibrium Constant Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the equilibrium constant (K₁) at temperature T₁ based on the known equilibrium constant (K₂) at temperature T₂ and the enthalpy change of the reaction.
Purpose: It helps chemists and chemical engineers predict how equilibrium constants change with temperature for chemical reactions.
The calculator uses the van't Hoff equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation relates the equilibrium constants at two different temperatures to the enthalpy change of the reaction.
Details: Understanding how equilibrium constants vary with temperature is crucial for reaction optimization, process design, and predicting reaction yields.
Tips: Enter K₂ (equilibrium constant at T₂), ΔH (enthalpy change), T₁ (desired temperature), and T₂ (reference temperature). All temperatures must be in Kelvin.
Q1: What is the van't Hoff equation?
A: It describes how the equilibrium constant changes with temperature for a given enthalpy change of reaction.
Q2: What units should I use for enthalpy?
A: The calculator expects enthalpy in J/mol. If you have kJ/mol, multiply by 1000 before entering.
Q3: Why must temperatures be in Kelvin?
A: The equation requires absolute temperature values to correctly calculate the temperature dependence.
Q4: What assumptions does this calculation make?
A: It assumes ΔH is constant over the temperature range and the reaction follows ideal behavior.
Q5: When would this calculation not be valid?
A: For large temperature ranges where ΔH changes significantly, or for reactions involving phase changes.