How Can I Solve for the Equilibrium Constants in These Equations?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating equilibrium constants from a set of equations, with a specific value of X given as 200. The user struggles with the math, noting that substituting values leads to a trivial solution of 0=0, indicating that the equations may not be independent. It is suggested that the user might be overcomplicating the problem by including unnecessary equations. To resolve the issue, it is recommended to ignore one of the linear equations to find the correct equilibrium constants. The conversation emphasizes the importance of simplifying the problem to achieve a solution.
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Homework Statement
With the 5 equations, the equilibrium contants can be calculated at the bottom. (See image)
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My complication
I am aware that X = 200 thus that value remains at that. Also, From the fourth equation K_{out} = Cl_{out}. But, I cannot seem to work out the values. If not simple algebra, what am I missing?
 
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Won't hurt if you would explain what is the question that you are solving, at the moment you just posted a bunch of equations describing some undefined system.
 
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From this, finding the concentrations at equilibrium.
 
I understand how the equations are set up but I can't seem to solve the maths to get the equilibrium constants. Is there something I am missing? Like I said, I am aware that X = 200 thus that value remains at that. Also, From the fourth equation K_{out} = Cl_{out}.
 
Simple algebra.

My bet is your problem is related to the fact you have too many equations - they are not all independent, which makes you getting 0=0 type result.
 
By equilibrium constants are we to guess that the protein forms complexes we might call XCl- and XCl2 in non-coperative fashion so it is characterised by a single equilibrium constant which it is required to calculate from the data?

I think you had better cite the entire question.
 
Last edited:
epenguin said:
By equilibrium constants are we to guess that the protein forms complexes we might call XCl- and XCl2 in non-coperative fashion so it is characterised by a single equilibrium constant which it is required to calculate from the data?

I think you had better cite the entire question.

The whole question is posted in post number 3. https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4410136&postcount=3
 
You do realize there is no problem with solving the question using your approach and the simple algebra, it is just a matter of ignoring superfluous information?
 
Borek said:
You do realize there is no problem with solving the question using your approach and the simple algebra, it is just a matter of ignoring superfluous information?

When I substitute into each other, they all just cancel out to 0=0.
 
  • #10
Which is exactly what I wrote in the post #5 - have you read it? That's because the linear equations are not independent. Ignore one of the linear ones and you will get the correct answer.
 
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