Le Chatelier's Principle
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
In a system at equilibrium, if a condition affecting equilibrium (such as temperature, pressure, or concentration) is changed, the system will spontaneously proceed in a direction that counteracts the change, establishing a new equilibrium.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
A physics explanation for resistance to change. This explains why organizational change is so difficult. When you try to exert pressure on a team (e.g., forcing 996 work schedule) to increase output, the system automatically generates counteracting forces (such as slacking off, resignations, passive resistance) to offset your pressure, returning the system to an inefficient but comfortable equilibrium. Unless you change the system's internal structure, simply applying pressure will only be 'buffered' by the system.
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Le Chatelier's Principle: When an equilibrium system is subjected to an external disturbance (change in concentration, pressure, or temperature), it will spontaneously shift in the direction that 'reduces' the disturbance until a new equilibrium is established. As a metaphor, any system has a 'reactive force' that maintains the status quo—unidirectional pressure will be buffered and offset by the system. Unless the system's internal structure (such as institutions, incentives) is changed, superficial pressure will only return to an inefficient but comfortable equilibrium.
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le_Chatelier%27s_principleverified
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