Chapter U6.121, Problem 1TAI

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The reason for calling ‘ K’ as constant needs to be explained.

Concept introduction: The equilibrium constant equation for a reaction is written by using the concentration of reactants and products in equilibrium. Only the concentrations of gaseous reactants are considered in the equilibrium constant equation.

Answer to Problem 1TAI

Value of K tells whether product or reactant is favored is in the reaction.

Explanation of Solution

The equilibrium constant K is a measure of whether starting substances or products are favored in an equilibrium mixture. A large value of $K$ indicates a large amount of product in the equilibrium mixture. A small value of K indicates very little product in the equilibrium mixture. As K indicates whether reactant or product is favored in a reaction, therefore it is called as constant.

Conclusion

The $K$ value is very useful to determine equilibrium favors product or reactant.