Hire a tutor

Provide an example of the rate constant of different reactions.

The rate constant varies for different reactions.

The rate constant, also known as the rate coefficient, is a proportionality constant that relates the rate of a chemical reaction to the concentration of reactants. It is specific to each reaction and depends on various factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of catalysts.

For example, the rate constant for the reaction between hydrogen and chlorine to form hydrogen chloride is 3.0 x 10^12 M^-1s^-1 at room temperature. This reaction is highly exothermic and occurs rapidly in the presence of light or a catalyst.

In contrast, the rate constant for the reaction between nitrogen and oxygen to form nitrogen monoxide is much lower, at around 4.0 x 10^-5 M^-1s^-1 at room temperature. This reaction requires a high activation energy and occurs slowly in the absence of a catalyst.

The rate constant can also be affected by changes in temperature, as described by the Arrhenius equation. An increase in temperature generally leads to an increase in the rate constant, as more molecules have sufficient energy to overcome the activation energy barrier.

Overall, the rate constant is an important parameter in understanding the kinetics of chemical reactions and can be used to predict the rate of a reaction under different conditions.

Study and Practice for Free

Trusted by 100,000+ Students Worldwide

Achieve Top Grades in your Exams with our Free Resources.

Practice Questions, Study Notes, and Past Exam Papers for all Subjects!

Need help from an expert?

4.93/5 based on486 reviews

The world’s top online tutoring provider trusted by students, parents, and schools globally.

Related Chemistry a-level Answers

    Read All Answers
    Loading...