Chapter 16, Problem 26E

A chemist trying to synthesize a particular compound attempts two different synthesis reactions. The equilibrium constants for the reactions are 23.3 and $\text{2}.\text{2}\times \text{1}{0}^{\text{4}}$ at room temperature. However, upon carrying reactions for 15 minutes, the chemist finds that the reaction with the smaller equilibrium constant produces more of the desired product. Explain how this might be possible.