a small value of equilibrium constant shows that

A small value of the equilibrium constant shows that the reaction strongly favors the reactants at equilibrium, i.e., very little product is formed and the reaction proceeds only to a small extent.

Quick Scoop: What does a small K mean?

When the equilibrium constant KKK is small (less than 1, especially much less than 1):

• The concentration of reactants at equilibrium is much larger than that of products.

• The reaction proceeds only slightly in the forward direction; it is often described as “reaction hardly occurs” or “reaction proceeds to a very small extent.”

• The equilibrium lies far to the left (towards reactants) in the reaction equation.

So, in exam/MCQ language:

A small value of equilibrium constant shows that the reaction does not proceed to a significant extent and reactants are greatly favoured over products.

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