Why can't equilibrium reaction be changed?

[kenhung123]

Once equilibrium is reached, apparently it cannot be altered in any way...Why is this the case? What prevents it from changing?

[the.watchman]

Well, that's not true, it can be changed by factors such as pressure, temperature, addition/removal of reactants/products etc. This definitely changes the equilibrium

[Gloamglozer]

Also, the equilibrium constant (K) only changes with temperature.  Not sure if you're up to it, but it's definitely worth noting.

[kenhung123]

@watchman Wow you are studying unit 4 chemistry already?!

[the.watchman]

Also, the equilibrium constant (K) only changes with temperature.  Not sure if you're up to it, but it's definitely worth noting.

Ah yep, thanks

@watchman Wow you are studying unit 4 chemistry already?!

Just a bit

[kenhung123]

Wow you are very prepared!

[mark_alec]

Once equilibrium is reached, apparently it cannot be altered in any way...Why is this the case? What prevents it from changing?

If equilibrium changed, we couldn't exactly call it equilibrium.

[Stojad]

A reaction is momentarily out of equilibrium once the pressure (or concentration in solutions) has been changed or extra reactant or product has been added. However, because of Le Chatelier's Principle, the reaction will attempt to restore itself to equilibrium by having net forward or reverse reactions (i.e. producing more products or reactants). If conditions are changed, the reaction is NOT considered to be in equilibrium until it restores itself. Changing the temperature is the only thing that changes the equilibrium constant, K, hence the temperature must be stated with K.