Question

For the reaction A+B+C→D+E, the initial concentration of reactant A determines the: A) Rate of the reaction B) Equilibrium constant K C) Activation energy D) Rate constant k

Answer 1

The initial concentration of reactant A in a chemical reaction determines the Rate of the reaction. This is explained by the Rate Law, which shows the rate of a reaction as directly proportional to the concentration of reactants. The equilibrium constant K, activation energy and rate constant k are not affected by the concentration.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the reaction A+B+C→D+E, the initial concentration of reactant A influences the Rate of the reaction.

According to the Rate Law, the rate of a reaction is directly proportional to the concentration of the reactants raised to the power of their respective reaction orders. These orders are determined experimentally using methods such as the method of initial rates. This involves observing changes in reaction rates when initial reactant concentrations are varied.

For instance, if A has an order of m, then doubling the concentration of A would double the rate if m=1, quadruple it if m=2, and so on.

Note, the Equilibrium constant K, Activation energy, and Rate constant k do not depend on concentration. K represents the balance of concentrations at equilibrium, while the Activation energy and Rate constant k are inherent properties of the reaction, independent of the concentrations of reactants or products.

Learn more about Chemical Reaction Rates