What factors affect the equilibrium position and in what way?

The easiest way to think about this is as the 'law of opposites' TemperatureExothermim reactions: If temp is increased then the reaction moves in the direction to reduce this rise of temp by shifting equilibrium to the leftEndothermic reactions: If temp is increased then the equilibrium shifts to decrese this temperature change by favouring the forward reactionPressureIf pressure is increased then the reaction moves to the side with the lowest number of moles of gas (to reduce the pressure) Note: The addition of a catalyst does not affect the position of the equlibrium becasue it increases the rate of both the forward and backward reaction (therefore no overall shift of equilibrium) 

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Answered by Nathan L. Chemistry tutor

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