Reaction Quotient (Q) and Equilibrium Constant (K)
The Reaction Quotient (Q) is a measure of the relative concentrations of products and reactants at any point in a reaction, while the Equilibrium Constant (K) describes the ratio at equilibrium. Changes in partial pressures can alter Q, and when Q is compared to K, it helps determine the direction in which the reaction will shift, thus influencing ΔG. Understanding these concepts is essential for analyzing how changes in conditions affect reaction spontaneity.