Comparing Q and K.

[Sameer Gupta 2F]

If we are asked to find the Equilbirum quotient, Q, will we have already been given K, so as to compare the values once both values have been identified?

[Garmani Kyaw]

Usually, if you were given Q is to compare which direction (product or reactant) will be favored which requires a K in order to see if Q>K or Q<K. In cases where K will not be given, you will be given the equilibrium concentration of the products and reactants, but questions that ask about the reaction quotient usually gives you K.

[Juliet Cushing_2H]

If its a comparison question you must always be given one of the values, and additionally must have the necessary tools to solve the second value. So like you said, if you're asked to solve for Q and compare it to K, the problem should give you K.

[Arnav Saud 2C]

If the problem is some time of comparison, they will most likely give you K, or give you values to allow you to solve for K.

[Stephen Min 1I]

If we are to find Q, the K will be given if the question asks to compare the two constants.

[EmilyGillen_1A]

I believe you can be given a problem where you just solve for Q and only Q, but for this class it seems like a comparison between Q and K will be more relevant. The comparison between the 2 tells us whether the reactants or products will be favored, but if we are asked to compare them we will always be given enough information to calculate them both (if the direct numbers for Q/K are not already given to us). So I would make sure to look over how to find Q and K, but also make sure you know what the 2 mean when comparing them together.

[arisawaters2D]

As said above, I think we will usually be given K and asked to calculate Q. Then, we can compare Q and K to determine the favored direction of the reaction to reach equilibrium.

[Arnav Saud 2C]

Q is mainly used to compare which side is going to be favored in relation to Q.
You'll probably have to find Q using some initial molar concentrations, then compare it to K.

[Geethika Janga 1L]

If they were asking you to compare the two values, they most probably will.

[Rainy Liu Ruoshui_2K]

Yes. By comparing the quotient and equilibrium constant, we can see whether the reaction will proceed towards the reactants or the products.