Distinguish between the terms reaction quotient, Q, and equilibrium constant, K_c.

The equilibrium constant, K_c, is 0.282 at temperature T.

Deduce, showing your work, the direction of the initial reaction.

Q: non-equilibrium concentrations AND K_c: equilibrium concentrations

OR

Q: «measured» at any time AND K_c: «measured» at equilibrium

[1 mark]

«Q = \(\frac{{{{[{\text{S}}{{\text{O}}_3}]}^2}}}{{{{[{\text{S}}{{\text{O}}_2}]}^2}[{{\text{O}}_2}]}} = \frac{{{{1.00}^2}}}{{{{1.00}^2} \times 2.00}}\)» = 0.500

reverse reaction favoured/reaction proceeds to the left AND Q > K_c/0.500 > 0.282

Do not award M2 without M1.

[2 marks]