Chapter 16.3, Problem 25SSC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The function of specific rate constant in a rate law equation needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The relationship between rate of a chemical reaction and concentration of reactants is expressed by rate law. Rate law is written using the concentration of reactants, each raised to a power which is experimentally determined and rate constant k.

Answer to Problem 25SSC

The effect of temperature in a reaction can be known from the specific rate constant.

Explanation of Solution

In a rate law equation, the k is specific rate constant which is a numerical value that relates concentration of reactants with the reaction rate at a given temperature. The k is unique for every reaction and have units, such as $\text{L}/(\text{mol}\cdot \text{s}),L^2/({\text{mol}}^2\cdot \text{s})\text{and}{\text{s}}^{-1}$. The value of k indicates the effect of temperature in rate of the reaction. Higher the temperature indicates higher the value of k that causes faster reaction.

Conclusion

Temperature dependence of a reaction can be explained by specific rate constant.