Carolina Investigations® for AP® Chemistry: Chemical Kinetics
After students complete the kinetics inquiry and determine the rate order based on their observations, have them share their data with the entire class. Then use the scientific model checklist and generate the mathematical model for the particular reactions you studied. As an extension, ask students to develop a general rate law that will serve as a model for reaction rate kinetics. Select the best model and display it on a “Super Models” poster or wall.
Rate laws and mathematical models
The order of a chemical reaction shows the relationship between the rate of chemical reaction and the concentration of reactant. The order of the reaction is determined experimentally by plotting graphs of reactant concentration (or product appearance) compared to time, and then selecting the graph that yields a straight line.
Mathematically, for a zeroth-order reaction, a "a" represents the order of the reaction, the rate expression for the change in concentration of the reactant is as follows.
Mathematically, the rate expression for a first-order reaction is as follows:
After integration:
Mathematically, the rate expression for a second-order reaction is as follows:
After integration:
Carolina Investigations for AP® Chemistry: Chemical Kinetics Kit (item #840588)
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