Why doesn't inert gas affect reaction rate?

In summary, the conversation discussed the role of inert gases in reaction rates. It was mentioned that they do not contribute to the reaction rate due to their stable electronic structure, making them unable to participate in nucleation. The definition of inert gases as non-reactive was also brought up, with the possibility of dilution being the only impact on reaction rates. The participants agreed that this explanation made sense.
  • #1
Notwen7
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Just as the title says, I'm having difficulty understanding why the concentration of inert gas is not included in the reaction rate. I would think adding a higher concentration of N2 (or some other inert gas) would increase the reaction rate. Perhaps, I'm confusing reaction rate with space time?
 
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  • #2
This is possibly because inert gases have stable octate electronic structure and hence cannot be sites(heterogenous) for nucleation which in other terms is reaction.
 
  • #3
Because it's inert. By the very definition of inert it doesn't react. The only thing an inert gas can do is dilute the reactants and that might affect reaction rates.
 
  • #4
Makes sense. Thank you pukb and Dr Morbius!
 
  • #5

I can understand your confusion about the role of inert gases in reaction rates. However, it is important to understand that the concentration of inert gas does not directly affect the reaction rate.

The reaction rate is determined by the concentration of the reactants and the presence of any catalysts. Inert gases, such as nitrogen (N2), have no effect on the concentration or reactivity of the reactants. They simply occupy space in the reaction vessel and do not participate in the chemical reaction.

Inert gases are often used in chemical reactions to create a controlled environment. They can be used to displace air and prevent the presence of oxygen, which may interfere with the reaction. Additionally, inert gases can be used to increase the pressure in the reaction vessel, which can have an indirect effect on the reaction rate by increasing the concentration of the reactants.

In summary, the concentration of inert gas does not directly affect the reaction rate because they do not participate in the chemical reaction. However, they can indirectly affect the reaction rate by creating a controlled environment for the reaction to take place. I hope this helps clarify any confusion.
 

1. Why do inert gases not affect reaction rate?

Inert gases, or noble gases, do not affect reaction rate because they are chemically unreactive. This means they do not participate in chemical reactions and therefore do not influence the rate at which reactions occur.

2. How do inert gases differ from other gases in terms of affecting reaction rate?

Inert gases differ from other gases in that they do not participate in chemical reactions. Other gases, such as oxygen or hydrogen, can react with other substances and affect the rate at which reactions occur.

3. Can inert gases be used to change the rate of a reaction?

No, inert gases cannot be used to change the rate of a reaction. Since they do not participate in chemical reactions, they have no effect on the rate at which reactions occur.

4. Are there any exceptions to the rule that inert gases do not affect reaction rate?

In some cases, inert gases can indirectly affect reaction rate by changing the pressure of the reaction system. This is known as the Le Chatelier's principle, where an increase in pressure can shift the equilibrium of a reaction and alter the rate at which it occurs.

5. Why are inert gases commonly used in reactions?

Inert gases are commonly used in reactions to create an inert atmosphere. This helps to prevent unwanted reactions from occurring and ensures that the reaction being studied is not influenced by any other gases present in the environment.

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