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Library AP Chemistry Unit 7: Equilibrium
⁂   AP Chemistry · Unit 7

7. Equilibrium

7–9% of the AP exam. 8 key topics. 4 common errors analyzed.

7–9% exam weight

Unit 7: Equilibrium

Unit 7 (Equilibrium) is part of the AP Chemistry core curriculum. Work through each key topic in sequence, constructing ICE tables, net ionic equations, or energy diagrams as appropriate.

Key topics in this unit

  1. Reversible reactions
  2. Reaction quotient (Q)
  3. Equilibrium constant (K)
  4. Le Chatelier's principle
  5. Solubility equilibria (Ksp)
  6. Common-ion effect
  7. pH and solubility
  8. Free energy of dissolution

Common errors — what the rubric penalizes

These are the most frequently penalized mistakes on AP exam FRQs and MCQs. Review each before your next practice session.

Common error

Including pure solids or pure liquids in equilibrium constant expressions (K, Ksp) — their concentrations are constant and by convention omitted, a rule students frequently overlook under exam pressure

Common error

Constructing incomplete ICE tables — omitting a species, using the wrong initial concentration, or forgetting that the change row must be proportional to stoichiometric coefficients

Common error

Comparing Q to K in the wrong direction: concluding the reaction shifts right when Q > K (it should shift left to decrease Q toward K)

Common error

Applying Le Chatelier's principle qualitatively without addressing all relevant stresses simultaneously, especially when both concentration and temperature changes are introduced in the same scenario

Study checklist

  • Can you list all key topics from memory without this page?
  • Have you worked through at least one FRQ-style question per topic?
  • Can you explain each common error above — and why the correct answer differs?
  • Have you reviewed the relevant College Board CED section and formula sheet entries?
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Our worked solutions and practice questions are original instructional content created by Tian2 AP. They are aligned to the concepts and skills described in College Board’s Course and Exam Description and are not reproductions of, or affiliated with, College Board’s official materials.