2. Q is greater than K. In this case the ratio of initial concentrationsof products to initial concentrations of reactants is too large. Forthe system to reach equilibrium, a net change of products toreactants must occur. The system shifts to the left, consumingproducts and forming reactants, until equilibrium is achieved.` 3. Q is less than K. In this case the ratio of initial concentrations ofproducts to initial concentrations of reactants is too small. Thesystem must shift to the right, consuming reactants and formingproducts, to attain equilibrium.