Equilibrium Constant Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the equilibrium constant (Kc) for a chemical reaction using Gibbs free energy and temperature.
Purpose: It helps chemists and chemical engineers predict the position of equilibrium in chemical reactions.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula relates the thermodynamic driving force (ΔG) to the equilibrium position through the exponential relationship.
Details: The equilibrium constant indicates whether products or reactants are favored at equilibrium and helps predict reaction yields.
Tips: Enter Gibbs free energy in Joules and temperature in Kelvin. Temperature must be > 0 K.
Q1: What does a large Kc value mean?
A: Kc > 1 indicates products are favored at equilibrium; Kc < 1 indicates reactants are favored.
Q2: What units should I use for Gibbs free energy?
A: The calculator expects ΔG in Joules. If you have kJ, multiply by 1000 before entering.
Q3: Why is temperature in Kelvin?
A: The thermodynamic equations require absolute temperature scale (Kelvin) for proper calculations.
Q4: What is the range of possible Kc values?
A: Theoretically from 0 to ∞, but practically between 10-30 to 1030 for most reactions.
Q5: How does temperature affect Kc?
A: For endothermic reactions (ΔH > 0), Kc increases with temperature; for exothermic reactions (ΔH < 0), Kc decreases with temperature.