The Reaction Quotient (Q) is a measure used in chemistry to determine the direction in which a chemical reaction will proceed. It is calculated using the concentrations of the reactants and products at any given moment, similar to the equilibrium constant, but not necessarily at equilibrium. The formula for Q is the ratio of the product concentrations raised to their coefficients in the balanced equation divided by the reactant concentrations raised to their coefficients. If Q is greater than the equilibrium constant K, the reaction will shift to the left, favoring the formation of reactants. Conversely, if Q is less than K, the reaction will shift to the right, favoring the formation of products. This concept helps chemists predict how changes in conditions, such as concentration or temperature, can affect the progress of a reaction.