Chapter U5.106, Problem 7E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Between steel beam and powdered iron, the one which dissolved faster is to be determined and also the difference in rate of the reaction of both cases needs to be explained.

Concept introduction: For a reaction to occur, the collision of reactant particles in correct orientation with sufficient energy is required. Rate of a reaction is the speed at which a reaction occurred.

Answer to Problem 7E

Powdered iron has faster rate of reaction than steel beam.

Explanation of Solution

Surface area is one of the factors that affect the rate of chemical reaction. If the surface area of a reactant is increased, it is more exposed to other reactant and hence increases speed of reaction. Powdered iron has increased surface area than steel iron. So, it oxidizes faster than a steel beam. Hence, powdered iron reacts faster than steel beam. So, rate of reaction is more in case of powdered iron.

Conclusion

There are many factors that affect the rate of a chemical reaction, such as, temperature, concentration, surface area etc.