Reaction quotient Q vs K (Qc uses current concentrations; compare to Kc for direction)

jee-mainjee-advancedneet-ug

Qc uses current concentrations; compare to Kc for direction

What each symbol means

SymbolWhat it stands for
K_cEquilibrium constant at that T
Q_cReaction quotient — same form as Kc but arbitrary snapshot

When to use this

Same exclusion rules as Kc (pure solids/liquids omitted). If Q < K, forward; Q > K, reverse; Q = K, equilibrium.