Question

For the elementary reaction A + B ⟶ C, what is the corresponding rate law?

a) Rate = k[A][B]
b) Rate = k[A]^2[B]
c) Rate = k/A
d) Rate = k[A]

Answer 1

The corresponding rate law for the elementary reaction A + B → C is rate = k[A][B], indicating it is first order with respect to A and B, and second-order overall. The correct option is a.

Step-by-step explanation:

The rate law for the elementary reaction A + B → C is rate = k[A][B]. This expression indicates that the rate at which product C is formed is directly proportional to the concentration of reactant A and also directly proportional to the concentration of reactant B.

Therefore, if you double the concentration of A, the reaction rate doubles, and similarly, if you double the concentration of B, the reaction rate also doubles. This dependence on both reactant concentrations implies that the reaction is first order with respect to A and also first order with respect to B, making it an overall second-order reaction.

Hence, Option a is correct.