Final answer:
If Keq is greater than 1, the reaction favors the products. If Keq is less than 1, the reaction favors the reactants. A Keq close to 1 indicates a balanced system with roughly equal amounts of reactants and products.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering whether a chemical reaction favors its reactants or products, the value of the equilibrium constant, Keq, is essential. If Keq is greater than 1, this indicates that more products are produced at equilibrium; therefore, the reaction favors the products. On the other hand, if Keq is less than 1, it means that fewer products are formed and more reactants remain; thus, the reaction favors the reactants. When Keq is neither very large nor very small (close to a value of 1), it means that roughly equal amounts of reactants and products are present at equilibrium, indicating a more balanced system.