Predicting direction with the reaction quotient

The reaction quotient describes the current composition using the same form as the equilibrium constant. Comparing the quotient with the equilibrium constant predicts the direction of net change at a specified temperature. If the quotient is smaller than the equilibrium constant, the mixture has too little product relative to equilibrium and net change favours products. If it is larger, net change favours reactants. At equality, the system is at equilibrium.