Why Doesn't Changing Reactant Concentration Affect the Equilibrium Constant?

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SUMMARY

Changing the concentration of reactants or products in a chemical equilibrium does not affect the equilibrium constant (Keq). For the reaction xX + yY <--> zZ, the equilibrium constant is defined as Keq = [Z]^z/[X]^x[Y]^y. When the concentration of a reactant, such as X, is altered, the concentrations of the products and other reactants adjust to maintain the equilibrium, thus keeping Keq constant. This principle is fundamental in chemical thermodynamics.

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  • Understanding of chemical equilibrium principles
  • Familiarity with the equilibrium constant (Keq) concept
  • Basic knowledge of reaction stoichiometry
  • Concept of Le Chatelier's principle
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johndoe3344
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Homework Statement


Not really a textbook question, but I've read from numerous sources that changing the concentration of the reactants/products won't change the equilibrium constant. Why isn't this contradictory?

Assume the reaction:
xX + yY <---> zZ
where x,y,z are the coefficients of X,Y,Z


Keq = [Z]^z/[X]^x[Y]^y

So if I change the concentration of say, X, then won't Keq change by definition?
 
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No. The constant will remain constant. The concentration of Z and/or Y will change accordingly to maintain the equality.
 
Thanks a lot. That cleared it up for me.
 

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