Chapter 16 -- Approximations
Some Concepts
When is approximation appropriate? [Answer]
Why can approximations be made? [Answer]
An Example
The 'x' in the denominator can be neglected if it is less than 5% of
the initial concentration(s). Whether x meets this standard can be
determined by examining the value of the equilibrium constant.
Several equilibrium constants are given below. For each, determine x
using both the rigorous and the approximate method. Click on each
value to compare your answers.
Some sample equilibrium constants
1 x 10^-5
1 x 10^-4
1 x 10^-3
1 x 10^-2
1 x 10^-1
1
10
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