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Chemical Equilibria

Chapter summary

Chemical Equilibria, at a glance

Explain a changing equilibrium, calculate its composition and connect the Haber process to rate and yield.

A-Level 8873, revised syllabus (2026-2027)

Quick revision

Revisit the essentials, then return to an explanation when you need it.

Keep the three questions separate
QuestionReasoning
Which way does equilibrium shift?Use the imposed concentration, gas-volume or temperature change and the balanced equation.
Does Kc change?Only a temperature change changes Kc for the same written reaction.
How fast is equilibrium reached?Use kinetics; a catalyst changes the approach, not the equilibrium composition.

Kc: equilibrium concentrations, products over reactants, coefficient powers. Convert amounts using the final volume. Link changes by stoichiometry and reject negative concentrations.

Haber: high pressure favours fewer gas moles; lower temperature favours the exothermic equilibrium but slows reaction. Iron gives a faster approach; cooling separates ammonia and reactants are recycled.

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