Chapter 14, Problem 25QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The relation between the rate constant and half-life for first- and second-order reactions is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

First-order reaction depends on the concentration of only one chemical reactant. Second-order reaction depends on the concentration of two chemical reactants.

Half-life of the reaction is the time at which the concentration of reactant becomes half of its initial concentration.

The half-life period is independent of the initial concentration of the reactant in case of first order reaction where as it is inversely proportional to the initial concentration of the reactant in case of second order reaction.