Question

What must be true of a system where reactants are more abundant at equilibrium? Select the correct answer below:

a. kₑᵩ > , ∆G < 0
b. kₑᵩ > , ∆G > 0
c. kₑᵩ > , ∆G = 0
d. depends on the temperature

Answer 1

A system where reactants are more abundant at equilibrium usually has a low equilibrium constant (K < 1), signifying a small tendency for reactants to form products. Temperature changes can shift this equilibrium, favoring the endothermic direction and affecting the concentration of reactants and products.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a system at equilibrium where reactants are more abundant, it generally means that the equilibrium constant (K) for the reaction is less than 1, indicating a system where reactants have a lower tendency to convert into products. This scenario, according to the reference information, corresponds to System 2 with K < 10-3, meaning at equilibrium the system will contain essentially only reactants.

When considering the effect of temperature changes on such a system, it is crucial to know whether the reaction is exothermic (releases heat) or endothermic (absorbs heat). An increase in temperature will typically shift the equilibrium toward the endothermic direction as per Le Châtelier's Principle, altering the concentrations of reactants and products in a way that can either increase or decrease K, depending on the reaction specifics.