Equal masses of solid calcium carbonate are reacted separately with excess 1.0 M hydrochloric acid under identical temperature and pressure conditions. Sample A consists of a single marble chip about 2 cm in diameter, whereas Sample B is finely powdered.
(a) Predict which sample produces carbon dioxide gas at a faster initial rate. Support your prediction with an explanation in terms of collisions between reactant species.
(b) After both reactions are complete, will the total volume of CO2(g) collected from Sample A be greater than, less than, or equal to that collected from Sample B? Justify your answer.
(c) Suppose the experiment is repeated with the powdered sample, but the reaction mixture is cooled by 15 °C while all other conditions remain constant. Qualitatively describe how the rate would change and explain your reasoning.