Asked by: Chahrazad Kanosk
Asked in category: science, chemistry
Last Updated: 18th May 2024

What does a catalyst do to affect equilibrium?

The presence of a catalyst will cause both forward and reverse reactions to accelerate equally. This will allow the system reach equilibrium quicker. It is important to remember that adding a catalyst does not affect the equilibrium position of the reaction.



The same goes for catalysts.

This is because the catalyst accelerates the forward and back reactions to the same degree. Although the relative rates of these reactions are not affected, the catalyst cannot alter the equilibrium position.

How does pressure influence equilibrium? The equilibrium will shift to the side of the reaction that has more moles of gas if there is an increase of pressure. The equilibrium will shift to the side of the reaction that has more moles of gases if the pressure drops.

Then, you might also wonder, "Does a catalyst alter equilibrium constant?"

The catalyst can be added or removed from the equation but it will not change the equilibrium constants. Temperature changes are the only thing that can alter an equilibrium constant. If you add or change a catalyst, the equilibrium position is unchanged. The forward and back reactions are both accelerated by a catalyst in exactly the same way.

What is the impact on equilibrium?

The equilibrium position of a reversible chemical reaction can be affected by changes in temperature, concentration, and pressure. An increase in temperature can cause the system to shift towards the products if the forward reaction is endothermic. A decrease in temperature would produce the opposite effect.