Can a Graph of Concentration vs. Time Reveal a Balanced Chemical Equation?

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SUMMARY

It is possible to determine a balanced chemical equation from a graph of concentration versus time for reactants A, B, and products C, D. By analyzing the rates of change of concentrations at two different time points, one can establish the stoichiometric coefficients using the relationship -1/a*[A]/ΔT = -1/b*[B]/ΔT = 1/c*[C]/ΔT = 1/d*[D]/ΔT. This method leverages the general ratios between rates in chemical kinetics to derive the balanced equation accurately.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of chemical kinetics and reaction rates
  • Familiarity with stoichiometry and balanced chemical equations
  • Ability to interpret concentration vs. time graphs
  • Knowledge of differential calculus for rate calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of chemical kinetics and rate laws
  • Learn how to derive stoichiometric coefficients from concentration data
  • Explore graphical analysis techniques for chemical reactions
  • Investigate the use of differential equations in modeling reaction rates
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Chemistry students, educators, and researchers interested in chemical kinetics and the analysis of reaction mechanisms through graphical data.

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Homework Statement


I'm just rewording the question, because there is one thing in particular I'm after.

Given a graph of A, B, & C in Concentration(y) versus time(x), can you determine the balanced chemical equation?
Is that possible? I guess if you found the rates and then checked to see how the ratios compared then you'd know the coefficient since its something like -1/a*[A]/delta T = -1/b*/delta T = 1/c*[C]/delta T = 1/d*[D]/delta T


Homework Equations


General Ratios between rates in chemical kinetics.


The Attempt at a Solution


Stated in the problem.
 
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Fetch said:

Homework Statement


I'm just rewording the question, because there is one thing in particular I'm after.

Given a graph of A, B, & C in Concentration(y) versus time(x), can you determine the balanced chemical equation?
Is that possible? I guess if you found the rates and then checked to see how the ratios compared then you'd know the coefficient since its something like -1/a*[A]/delta T = -1/b*/delta T = 1/c*[C]/delta T = 1/d*[D]/delta T


Homework Equations


General Ratios between rates in chemical kinetics.


The Attempt at a Solution


Stated in the problem.


If you think about it you can determine the balanced equation from [A], and [C] at any two times, i.e. by the changes of these. Graphically estimated rates incorporate this information for several different times, but the time factor is irrelevant.
 

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