Question detail
If a reaction has a rate equation of Rate = k[A][B]^2, what is the overall order of the reaction?
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. 1
- B. 2
- C. 3
- D. 4
Answer
3
Explanation
The overall order of a reaction is the sum of the powers of the concentration terms in the rate equation. Here, the order with respect to A is 1 and with respect to B is 2, giving a total order of 1 + 2 = 3.
Common mistake
Incorrect Rate Equation Formation
Students often confuse the order of reaction with the coefficients in the balanced equation when writing rate equations.
To write the correct rate equation, identify the order of each reactant based on experimental data, not the coefficients. For example, if the rate law is rate = k[A]^2[B]^1, this indicates that the reaction is second order with respect to A and first order with respect to B. Ensure to use the correct orders derived from initial rate data.
Related flashcards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Related practice questions
Question 1 of 5
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.