Equilibrium constant contradiction

Thread starter Himal kharel
Start date Oct 6, 2011
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Constant Contradiction Equilibrium Equilibrium constant

In summary, the equilibrium constant contradiction refers to a discrepancy in the value of the equilibrium constant calculated using different methods or experimental conditions. It can occur due to experimental errors, assumptions made in calculations, or limitations of the model used. The equilibrium constant is calculated by taking the ratio of product and reactant concentrations at equilibrium, based on the law of mass action. Factors that can contribute to a contradiction include experimental errors, assumptions, and model limitations. In some cases, it can be resolved by improving techniques or accounting for additional factors, but in others, it may call into question the validity of results. It is important to consider potential sources of error and limitations when interpreting equilibrium constant calculations.

Oct 6, 2011

Himal kharel

I recently studied that equilibrium constant is independent of concentration. But if you multiply both sides of equation by any number, equilibrium constant changes. Isn't this contradictory?

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Oct 6, 2011

Borek

Mentor

Please elaborate. Yes, if you multiply something by something its value usually changes, but how is that related to equilibrium constant?

1. What is the equilibrium constant contradiction?

The equilibrium constant contradiction refers to a discrepancy between the value of the equilibrium constant calculated using different methods or experimental conditions. This can occur due to experimental errors, assumptions made in calculations, or limitations of the model used.

2. How is the equilibrium constant calculated?

The equilibrium constant (K_c) is calculated by taking the ratio of the concentrations of products to reactants at equilibrium, each raised to their respective stoichiometric coefficients. This is based on the law of mass action, which states that the ratio of the concentrations of reactants and products at equilibrium is constant at a given temperature.

3. What factors can contribute to an equilibrium constant contradiction?

There are several factors that can lead to an equilibrium constant contradiction, such as experimental errors in measuring concentrations, assumptions made in calculations (such as assuming ideal behavior of gases or neglecting the effects of ionic strength), or limitations of the model used to describe the system.

4. Can an equilibrium constant contradiction be resolved?

In some cases, an equilibrium constant contradiction can be resolved by improving experimental techniques or accounting for additional factors in calculations. However, in some cases, the contradiction may be due to limitations of the model used and cannot be fully resolved.

5. How does an equilibrium constant contradiction affect the validity of results?

An equilibrium constant contradiction may call into question the validity of results or calculations, as it indicates a discrepancy between different methods or experimental conditions. It is important to carefully consider the potential sources of error and limitations when interpreting the results of equilibrium constant calculations.