Can you explain Le Chatelier's Principle?

Le Chatelier's principle: If the external condition is changed, the equilibrium will shift to oppose this change. What are these external conditions that can be changed? Temperature, pressure and concentration Temperature: If you increase the temperature, the equilibrium will shift in the direction of the endothermic reaction to reduce the temperature by absorbing heatConcentration: An increase in concentration will shift equilibrium to the opposite side so more of that reaction is taking place to oppose the increase in concentrationPressure: An increase in pressure will cause the equilibrium to shift to the side with the lowest moles of gas to oppose the increase in pressure. Be aware to look out for state symbols! Catalyst: has no effect on equilibria.

DN
Answered by Dominique N. Chemistry tutor

1971 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain why sulfur deviates from the general trend in ionisation energies across period 3.


What is a mole?


Explain how a catalyst can effect the rate of a forward and reverse reaction.


How does increasing/decreasing temperature affect the equilibrium position of the following reaction: CuSO4.5H2O(s) ⇌ CuSO4(s) + H2O(l) ?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning