Question

In an experiment, a sample of NaClO3 was 90% decomposed in 48 min. Approximately how long would this decomposition have taken if the sample had been heated 20 °C higher?

a) 6 min
b) 12 min
c) 24 min
d) 96 min

Answer 1

If the sample of NaClO3 had been heated 20 °C higher, the decomposition would have taken approximately 24 min.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the given question, we are told that the rate of a reaction doubles for every 10 °C rise in temperature.

Now, to find approximately how long the decomposition of NaClO3 would have taken if the sample had been heated 20 °C higher, we can use the information given in the question.

Since the rate doubles for every 10 °C rise in temperature, a 20 °C rise would result in the rate being quadrupled. Therefore, the time taken for the decomposition would be halved.

So, if the sample took 48 min to be 90% decomposed, it would have taken approximately 24 min if it had been heated 20 °C higher.