Le Chatelier's Principle

Front

What is Le Chatelier's Principle?

Back

Le Chatelier's Principle states that if a dynamic equilibrium is disturbed by changing the conditions, the position of equilibrium shifts to counteract the change.

Front

What happens to equilibrium when heat is added to an exothermic reaction?

Back

The equilibrium shifts left, towards the reactants.

Front

What happens to equilibrium when heat is removed from an exothermic reaction?

Back

The equilibrium shifts right, towards the products.

Front

How does the addition of a reactant affect the equilibrium?

Back

The equilibrium shifts to the right, towards the products.

Front

How does the removal of a product affect the equilibrium?

Back

The equilibrium shifts to the right, towards the products.

Front

What is the effect of increasing pressure on a gaseous equilibrium?

Back

The equilibrium shifts towards the side with fewer moles of gas.

Front

What is the effect of decreasing pressure on a gaseous equilibrium?

Back

The equilibrium shifts towards the side with more moles of gas.

Front

What happens to equilibrium when a catalyst is added?

Back

A catalyst does not affect the position of equilibrium; it only speeds up the rate at which equilibrium is reached.

Front

What is the effect of increasing temperature on an endothermic reaction?

Back

The equilibrium shifts to the right, towards the products.

Front

What is the effect of decreasing temperature on an endothermic reaction?

Back

The equilibrium shifts to the left, towards the reactants.