If a reaction has an equilibrium constant ($K$) that slightly favors the reactants ($K<1$), what strategy can a chemist use to ensure a high yield of product?
Answer
Continuously remove the desired product as it forms.
By keeping the concentration of the product continually low via removal, the system remains stressed to compensate, driving the reaction forward, even if the inherent thermodynamic equilibrium constant ($K$) favors the starting materials.
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