Question

The conversion of molecules X to Y follows second order kinetics.If concentration of X is increased to three times how will it affectthe rate of formation of Y?

Answer 1

The reaction X → Y follows second order kinetics.

Therefore, the rate equation for this reaction will be:

Rate = k[X]² (1)

Let [X] = a mol L⁻¹, then equation (1) canbe written as:

Rate₁ = k .(a)²

= ka²

If the concentration of X is increased to three times, then [X] =3a mol L⁻¹

Now, the rate equation will be:

Rate = k (3a)²

= 9(ka²)

Hence, the rate of formation will increase by 9 times.