1. What is the Rate Law Equation?

The rate law expresses the relationship between the rate of a chemical reaction and the concentration of its reactants. It takes the form: Rate = k [A]^m[B]ⁿ, where k is the rate constant, [A] and [B] are concentrations, and m and n are reaction orders.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the rate law equation:

Where:

• \( k \) — Rate constant (units vary with reaction order)
• \( [A] \) — Concentration of reactant A (mol/L)
• \( m \) — Reaction order with respect to A
• \( [B] \) — Concentration of reactant B (mol/L)
• \( n \) — Reaction order with respect to B

Explanation: The rate is directly proportional to the rate constant and depends on the concentrations of reactants raised to their respective orders.

3. Importance of Rate Law Calculation

Details: The rate law helps determine how changing concentrations affect reaction rates, predicts reaction behavior, and provides insight into reaction mechanisms.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the rate constant, concentrations, and reaction orders. For unimolecular reactions, set [B] to 0. All values must be non-negative.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I determine reaction orders?
A: Reaction orders are determined experimentally, often through the method of initial rates or integrated rate laws.

Q2: What are typical units for the rate constant?
A: Units vary with overall reaction order: 1st order (s^-1), 2nd order (L/mol·s), 3rd order (L²/mol²·s).

Q3: Can I use this for more than two reactants?
A: This calculator handles two reactants. For more complex reactions, you would need to extend the equation.

Q4: What's the difference between rate and rate constant?
A: The rate constant (k) is a proportionality constant, while the rate is the actual speed of reaction at given concentrations.

Q5: Does this apply to all reactions?
A: This applies to elementary reactions. Complex reactions may have more complicated rate laws.