Chapter 1.

Overview

Equilibrium and Le Châtelier’s Principle

The learning objectives of this experiment are as follows:

• Explore chemical equilibrium in the laboratory and see Le Châtelier’s principle in effect.
• Observe the effects of changes in concentration on a system in equilibrium and calculate its rate constant.
• Observe the effect of temperature on a system at equilibrium and determine if a reaction is endothermic or exothermic and properly place heat as a reactant or product in the balanced equation.

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

The Ohio State University

Intro

Previously in chemistry we have learned about the process of equilibrium, a condition in which the forward and reverse reactions are occurring at equal rates. From a quick glance it may appear that no reaction is taking place because there is no net change in the reactants or products. However, this process is more appropriately referred to as dynamic equilibrium, indicating that the forward and reverse reactions are happening simultaneously.

External conditions (temperature, pressure, changing concentrations) will disrupt a chemical equilibrium and a new equilibrium will be established. In this lab we will manipulate chemical equilibria and explore Le Châtelier’s Principle.

Procedure

Treatment of Data

Disposal of Chemicals

Credits