Final answer:
To find the rate of loss of O3 when the rate of formation of O2 is known, we use the stoichiometric coefficients from the balanced equation and find that the rate of loss of O3 is 5.41 × 10⁻¹ m/s.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question involves determining the rate of loss of O₃ (ozone) based on the given rate of formation of O₂ (oxygen). The balanced chemical equation is 2O₃(g) → 3 O₂(g). If the rate of formation of O₂ is 8.12 × 10⁻¹ m/s, we will use the stoichiometric coefficients to find the rate of loss of O₃. For every 3 moles of O₂ produced, 2 moles of O₃ are consumed.
To find the rate of the loss of O₃, we divide the given rate of formation of O₂ by its stoichiometric coefficient (3) and then multiply by the stoichiometric coefficient of O₃ (2), as follows:
Rate of loss of O₃ = (Rate of formation of O₂) × (Stoichiometric coefficient of O₃) / (Stoichiometric coefficient of O₂)
Rate of loss of O₃ = (8.12 × 10⁻¹ m/s) × (2/3) = 5.41 × 10⁻¹ m/s
The negative sign indicates the loss (consumption) of O₃ in the reaction, and therefore, the rate of loss of O₃ is 5.41 × 10⁻¹ m/s.