Question

As a reaction proceeds, the value of Q, the reaction quotient, _____.

(a) Increases steadily until it reaches equilibrium.
(b) Decreases steadily until it reaches equilibrium.
(c) Remains constant throughout the reaction.
(d) Varies unpredictably.

Answer 1

The value of the reaction quotient (Q) increases steadily as a reaction approaches equilibrium and remains constant once equilibrium is reached. Therefore, the correct answer is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

As a reaction proceeds, the value of the reaction quotient (Q) varies as reactant concentrations typically decrease and product concentrations increase, affecting the Q value correspondingly. During the progression towards equilibrium, if Q is less than the equilibrium constant (K), the reaction will move forward, causing Q to increase. As the reaction approaches equilibrium, Q will continue to change until it equals K. Once equilibrium is attained, the concentrations of the reactants and the products stabilize, rendering the value of Q constant.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is: (a) Increases steadily until it reaches equilibrium.