Question

The data from a study of the decomposition of NO2 (g) to form NO (g) and O2(g) are given in the table above. Which of the following rate laws is consistent with the data?

a) Rate = k[NO2]^2[O2]
b) Rate = k[NO2][O2]
c) Rate = k[NO2]
d) Rate = k[NO]^2[O2]

Answer 1

The rate law consistent with the decomposition of NO2 given the data would likely be second-order in NO2, suggesting Rate = k[NO2]2 is the correct expression.

Step-by-step explanation:

The consistent rate law for the decomposition of NO2 (g) to form NO (g) and O2(g) according to the provided data should show dependence on the concentration of NO2. In the absence of the table data in the question, we cannot analyze it directly. However, based on the information given, if the rate law for the reaction has been determined to have a second-order dependence on NO2, then option c) Rate = k[NO2] is not consistent as it indicates first-order dependence on NO2. Similarly, options that include [O2] or [NO] in the rate law are not aligned with the provided information that indicates the solely second-order rate in NO2. Thus, we might infer that option a) Rate = k[NO2]2 is the consistent rate law as it shows the reaction being second order with respect to NO2.