Chem II Kinetics Review

Front

What is the rate law for a second order reaction?

Back

The rate law for a second order reaction is expressed as Rate = k[A]^2 or Rate = k[A][B], where k is the rate constant and [A] and [B] are the concentrations of the reactants.

Front

If the concentration of a reactant in a second order reaction is doubled, how does the rate of reaction change?

Back

The rate of reaction increases by a factor of 4.

Front

Define bimolecular reaction.

Back

A bimolecular reaction involves two reactant particles (atoms, molecules, or ions) in the rate-determining step.

Front

What does the term 'reaction rate' refer to?

Back

Reaction rate refers to the speed at which reactants are converted into products in a chemical reaction.

Front

What is a reaction pathway diagram?

Back

A reaction pathway diagram visually represents the energy changes during a chemical reaction, showing the transition states and intermediates.

Front

What is the significance of the rate-determining step in a reaction mechanism?

Back

The rate-determining step is the slowest step in a reaction mechanism, which determines the overall rate of the reaction.

Front

How does temperature affect reaction rates?

Back

Increasing temperature generally increases reaction rates due to higher kinetic energy, leading to more frequent and effective collisions between reactant particles.

Front

What is the effect of a catalyst on a chemical reaction?

Back

A catalyst increases the rate of a chemical reaction by lowering the activation energy without being consumed in the process.

Front

Define activation energy.

Back

Activation energy is the minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to occur.

Front

What is the difference between a fast and a slow reaction?

Back

A fast reaction occurs quickly, with a high reaction rate, while a slow reaction takes a longer time to reach completion, with a low reaction rate.