Question

Explain how knowing the order of a reaction (based on its Rate Law) gives the ability to know the effect of that reactant on the rate of the reaction. Make sure to use zero order, 1st order, and 2nd order effects in your essay.

Answer 1

Order of the reaction has a direct relation to effect of reactant.

For Zero order:

rate = K*[A]^0

rate =K

since rate is independent of concentration of reactant, reactant doesn't effect rate of reaction.

For 1st order:

rate = k[A]^1

rate= k[A]

Here if we double the concentration of reactant, rate will be doubled. Its direct relation between rate and concentration.

For 2nd order:

rate = k[A]^2

Here if we double the concentration of reactant, rate will become 4 times. Its square relation between rate and concentration.

So order help us understand effect of reactant on rate