A different bimolecular process is believed to proceed by the mechanism
Step 1: A+B⇌C (fast)
Step 2: C+B→D (slow)
A and B are stable reactants; C is a short-lived intermediate. The following initial-rate data were obtained at 350K:
Run [A] (M) [B] (M) Initial rate (M⋅s−1)
1 0.010 0.010 1.0×10−4
2 0.020 0.010 2.0×10−4
3 0.010 0.020 4.1×10−4
4 0.010 0.030 9.0×10−4
(1) Part 1: (a) Derive the rate law predicted by the mechanism in terms of k2, K1, and reactant concentrations.
(2) Part 2: (b) Using the experimental data, determine the empirical reaction order with respect to A and to B. Show numerical work.
(3) Part 3: (c) Write the empirical rate law obtained in part (b) and compare it with the rate law derived in part (a). On the basis of this comparison, state whether the mechanism is consistent with the data and justify your answer.