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Chemical Equilibrium

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Chemical equilibrium occurs when forward and reverse reaction rates are equal, yielding constant concentrations. The equilibrium constant K quantifies the ratio of product to reactant concentrations at equilibrium.

Le Chatelier principle predicts how systems respond to disturbances. ICE tables systematically calculate equilibrium concentrations. Q compared to K determines reaction direction. Ksp governs solubility equilibria and the common ion effect.

Covers Kc, Kp, ICE tables, Le Chatelier principle, Q vs K, Ksp, and common ion effect for AP Chemistry Unit 7.

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Part of:AP Chemistry
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Curriculum alignment— Standards-aligned

Grade level

Grades 9-12College+

Learning objectives

  • Write equilibrium expressions (Kc, Kp) and calculate equilibrium constants
  • Use ICE tables to determine equilibrium concentrations
  • Apply Le Chatelier principle to predict shifts in equilibrium
  • Compare Q and K to predict reaction direction
  • Calculate solubility from Ksp and apply the common ion effect

Recommended Resources

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Books

Chemistry: The Central Science

by Brown, LeMay, Bursten, Murphy

Chemical Principles

by Zumdahl and DeCoste

Courses

AP Chemistry

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