Question detail
In a proposed reaction mechanism, how can you identify the rate-determining step?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Rate equations (A-level only)
Question
- A. By finding the step with the lowest energy transition state
- B. By determining which step has the highest concentration of reactants
- C. By analyzing the step that has the highest activation energy
- D. By identifying the step that is slowest compared to others
Answer
By identifying the step that is slowest compared to others
Explanation
The rate-determining step is identified as the slowest step in the mechanism, as it limits the speed of the overall reaction. This step has a significant impact on the rate equation derived from the mechanism.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Rate-Determining Step
Students often confuse the rate-determining step with the overall reaction equation, failing to identify which step limits the rate of the reaction.
To clarify, remember that the rate-determining step is the slowest step in the reaction mechanism that controls the overall rate. Identify the step with the highest activation energy or the one that takes the longest time to occur.
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