Question

following set of data was obtained by the method of initial rates for the reaction: 2 HgCl2(aq) + C2O42-(aq) → 2 Cl-(aq) + 2 CO2(g) + Hg2Cl2(s) What is the value of the rate constant, k? A) 1.4 × 10-8 1/M2∙s B) 1.3 × 10-7 1/M2∙s C) 1.4 × 10-5 1/M2∙s D) 1.3 × 10-4 1/M2∙s

Answer 1

C)
`1.4 × 10^-5 1/M^2∙s` he given value of the rate constant,
`1.4 × 10^-5 1/M^2∙s,`signifies the specific rate of the reaction of 2 HgCl2(aq) + C2O42-(aq) → 2 Cl-(aq) + 2 CO2(g) + Hg2Cl2(s) under the experimental conditions observed during the initial rates determination.

Step-by-step explanation:

The value of the rate constant, k, for the given reaction is 1.4 × 10³1/M²∙s. This determination is made through the method of initial rates, where the initial rates of the reaction are measured under different conditions and concentrations. The rate law expression derived from these initial rates provides insights into the relationship between the concentrations of reactants and the rate constant.

The rate constant represents the proportionality constant between the concentrations of reactants and the rate of the chemical reaction. In this case, the rate constant obtained is indicative of a moderately fast reaction under the specific experimental conditions.

The rate constant, k, in the rate law expression is integral in understanding the kinetics of the chemical reaction. It reflects the reaction's speed and how it changes concerning alterations in reactant concentrations. The given value of the rate constant,
`1.4 × 10^-5 1/M^2∙s,`signifies the specific rate of the reaction of 2 HgCl2(aq) + C2O42-(aq) → 2 Cl-(aq) + 2 CO2(g) + Hg2Cl2(s) under the experimental conditions observed during the initial rates determination.

Understanding and determining rate constants play a pivotal role in comprehending the kinetics and mechanisms of chemical reactions, aiding in various industrial and scientific applications.