Teaching chemistry equilibria post-16

There are several important equilibrium reactions studied in chemistry, such as the Haber process and the contact process. Students may struggle with the conceptual idea of equilibria, due to the notion that only physical changes are reversible, even at post-16 level. Here, it’s important that teachers assess any student confusion or misunderstanding, and there are numerous key practical reactions that can support the understanding of equilibrium. This article covers how students can use the initial change equilibrium (ICE) method when looking at mathematical calculations and explanations, as well as Le Chatelier’s principle to understand and explain the range of factors that can affect the position of equilibrium.