Why Is the Initial Rate Method Justified in Chemical Kinetics?

[LadiesMan]

1. Why are we justified in using the initial rate method?



2. Attempt: Is it because the rate changes linearly at the beginning...

Thanks

 

[dwintz02]

Initial rates works because you get your data before any significant changes in concentration occur. Why would it be disadvantageous to wait longer?

 

[Blueshift5]

for your question. The initial rate method is a commonly used technique in chemical kinetics to determine the rate of a reaction. It involves measuring the initial rate of a reaction, or the rate at which the reactants are being consumed or products are being formed at the very beginning of the reaction. This method is justified because at the beginning of a reaction, the concentration of reactants is at its highest and the effects of any reverse reactions or equilibrium are negligible. This allows for a more accurate determination of the reaction rate. Additionally, the initial rate method is often used for reactions with complex mechanisms, as it allows for the determination of the overall reaction rate without needing to understand every step of the reaction mechanism. Therefore, the initial rate method is a reliable and convenient approach for determining reaction rates in a variety of chemical systems.