What is the unit of the rate constant for a first-order reaction? (2023)

What is the unit of the rate constant for a first-order reaction? (2023)

Step 1: Understand what a first-order reaction is. A first-order reaction is a type of chemical reaction where the rate depends on the concentration of one reactant raised to the first power.
Step 2: Recall the general formula for the rate of a reaction. The rate of a reaction can be expressed as: Rate = k [A], where 'k' is the rate constant and [A] is the concentration of the reactant.
Step 3: Identify the units of concentration. Concentration is usually measured in moles per liter (mol/L).
Step 4: Write the units for the rate. The rate of a reaction is typically measured in moles per liter per second (mol/L/s).
Step 5: Substitute the units into the rate equation. From the equation Rate = k [A], we can rearrange it to find the units of 'k': k = Rate / [A].
Step 6: Substitute the units into the rearranged equation. This gives us: k = (mol/L/s) / (mol/L).
Step 7: Simplify the units. When you divide (mol/L/s) by (mol/L), the 'mol/L' cancels out, leaving you with '1/s' or 's⁻¹'.
Step 8: Conclude that the unit of the rate constant for a first-order reaction is s⁻¹.

No concepts available.