Question
Define the order of a reaction.
Solution
The order of a reaction is equal to the sum of the powers (exponents) to which the various concentration terms are raised in the rate law expression of the reaction.
Rate = k [A]x [B]y
order = x + y
for example
Rate = k [A]x [B]y
order = x + y
for example
Rate = k [A]1/2 [B]3/2 So order = 1/2 + 3/2 = 2, i.e., second order.
