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4 Dec 2025

193

2 pages

Understanding Chemical Equilibria: A Guide

user profile picture

Aisha Abdullahi @aishaabdullahi_deom

Chemical equilibria might seem complex, but they're actually quite logical once you understand the basic principles. Think of... Show more

Equilibria.
Reversible reactions.
go
its exothermic
opposite
9If
Reachons
Us Same
each
2.
५
or
f دا
made
responds
the
Le Cha teller's Princi

Reversible Reactions and Le Chatelier's Principle

Ever noticed how some chemical reactions seem to go both ways? That's because reversible reactions can proceed forward and backward simultaneously, creating a dynamic balance. Here's the key insight if a reaction releases energy (exothermic) in one direction, it absorbs the exact same amount of energy (endothermic) when going the opposite way.

Le Chatelier's Principle is your best mate for predicting what happens when you mess with this balance. The rule is simple disturb an equilibrium system, and it'll fight back by shifting to counteract your change.

When you increase concentration of any substance, the equilibrium shifts away from that substance to reduce its concentration. It's like the reaction is trying to use up the excess you've added.

For pressure changes, remember that equilibrium shifts towards the side with fewer gas molecules when pressure increases. The system literally tries to take up less space to reduce the pressure you've applied.

Quick Tip Temperature changes are trickier - increasing temperature shifts the equilibrium towards the endothermic direction, as the system tries to absorb that extra heat energy.

Equilibria.
Reversible reactions.
go
its exothermic
opposite
9If
Reachons
Us Same
each
2.
५
or
f دا
made
responds
the
Le Cha teller's Princi

Catalysts and Equilibrium Constants

Here's something that catches many students out catalysts don't affect equilibrium position at all. They're like a fair referee - they speed up both the forward and backward reactions equally, helping you reach equilibrium faster without favouring either side.

The equilibrium constant (Kc) is your mathematical tool for describing equilibrium quantitatively. For any reaction aA + bB ⇌ cC + dD, you calculate it as Kc = ProductsProducts/ReactantsReactants, where each concentration is raised to the power of its coefficient in the balanced equation.

Understanding Kc values helps predict reaction behaviour. A large Kc means products are favoured at equilibrium, whilst a small Kc indicates reactants dominate the mixture.

Exam Insight Remember that Kc only changes with temperature - not concentration, pressure, or catalysts. This is a common exam question that trips up many students!

The square brackets XX represent concentration in mol dm⁻³, and you'll need to use the balanced chemical equation to get the correct powers for your calculation.

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Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

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The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

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I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

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THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Chemistry

193

4 Dec 2025

2 pages

Understanding Chemical Equilibria: A Guide

user profile picture

Aisha Abdullahi

@aishaabdullahi_deom

Chemical equilibria might seem complex, but they're actually quite logical once you understand the basic principles. Think of it like a perfectly balanced see-saw that adjusts itself whenever someone tries to tip it - that's exactly how chemical reactions behave... Show more

Equilibria.
Reversible reactions.
go
its exothermic
opposite
9If
Reachons
Us Same
each
2.
५
or
f دا
made
responds
the
Le Cha teller's Princi

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Reversible Reactions and Le Chatelier's Principle

Ever noticed how some chemical reactions seem to go both ways? That's because reversible reactions can proceed forward and backward simultaneously, creating a dynamic balance. Here's the key insight: if a reaction releases energy (exothermic) in one direction, it absorbs the exact same amount of energy (endothermic) when going the opposite way.

Le Chatelier's Principle is your best mate for predicting what happens when you mess with this balance. The rule is simple: disturb an equilibrium system, and it'll fight back by shifting to counteract your change.

When you increase concentration of any substance, the equilibrium shifts away from that substance to reduce its concentration. It's like the reaction is trying to use up the excess you've added.

For pressure changes, remember that equilibrium shifts towards the side with fewer gas molecules when pressure increases. The system literally tries to take up less space to reduce the pressure you've applied.

Quick Tip: Temperature changes are trickier - increasing temperature shifts the equilibrium towards the endothermic direction, as the system tries to absorb that extra heat energy.

Equilibria.
Reversible reactions.
go
its exothermic
opposite
9If
Reachons
Us Same
each
2.
५
or
f دا
made
responds
the
Le Cha teller's Princi

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Catalysts and Equilibrium Constants

Here's something that catches many students out: catalysts don't affect equilibrium position at all. They're like a fair referee - they speed up both the forward and backward reactions equally, helping you reach equilibrium faster without favouring either side.

The equilibrium constant (Kc) is your mathematical tool for describing equilibrium quantitatively. For any reaction aA + bB ⇌ cC + dD, you calculate it as: Kc = ProductsProducts/ReactantsReactants, where each concentration is raised to the power of its coefficient in the balanced equation.

Understanding Kc values helps predict reaction behaviour. A large Kc means products are favoured at equilibrium, whilst a small Kc indicates reactants dominate the mixture.

Exam Insight: Remember that Kc only changes with temperature - not concentration, pressure, or catalysts. This is a common exam question that trips up many students!

The square brackets XX represent concentration in mol dm⁻³, and you'll need to use the balanced chemical equation to get the correct powers for your calculation.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Most popular content in Chemistry

Most popular content

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user