Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
Le Chatelier's Principle
Noun
luh sha-ta-lay’z prin-si-puhl
Definition
A principle in chemistry that states if a system at equilibrium is subjected to a change in concentration, temperature, or pressure, the system will shift in a direction that counteracts the change.
Examples
- If you increase the concentration of reactants, the equilibrium will shift to produce more products.
- Heating a reversible reaction at equilibrium will favor the endothermic process according to Le Chatelier’s Principle.
Meaning
Le Chatelier’s Principle helps predict how a change in conditions will affect the position of equilibrium in a chemical reaction.
Synonyms
- Equilibrium Shift Principle
- Dynamic Equilibrium Principle
