Definition of Equilibrium constant
1. Noun. (chemistry) the ratio of concentrations when equilibrium is reached in a reversible reaction (when the rate of the forward reaction equals the rate of the reverse reaction).
Medical Definition of Equilibrium constant
1.
The ratio of the reverse and forward rate constants for a reaction of the type:
A + B = AB
at equilibrium the equilibrium constant (K) equals the product of the concentrations of reactants divided by the concentration of product and has dimensions of concentration.
Kd = (concentration A.concentration B) / (concentration AB).
The affinity constant (Ka) is the reciprocal of the equilibrium constant.
Dimension: moles per litre. In general the concept of Kd is more readily understood than that of Ka, for example: in considering the conversion of A to AB by the binding of ligand B, the Kd = B when A = AB. Thus Kd is equal to the ligand concentration which produces half maximal conversion (response).
(10 Jan 1998)
Lexicographical Neighbors of Equilibrium Constant
Other Resources:
