Introduction to Chemical Equilibrium

Learning Targets:

• I can state that in a reversible reaction, both forward and reverse reactions are taking place
• I can state what is equal at equilibrium (the forward reaction rate = the reverse reaction rate.
• I can describe how we know when a reaction is at equilibrium (constant macroscopic properties).
• I can write the equilibrium expression, Keq, of a given reaction.

aA + bB <--> cC + dD

• I can explain that we do not include solids and liquids in the Keq, because their concentrations do not change and are therefore part of the Keq.
• I can calculate the value of Keq given the concentrations of the reactants and products at equilibrium.
• I can explain that only temperature can change the Keq value.
• I can determine whether a reaction is reactant-favored, product-favored or approximately equal (products and reactants) at equilibrium by looking at the value of Keq or looking at the graph of concentrations.