The gas-phase formation of substance C from reactants A and B is studied at constant temperature. Initial-rate data were collected for three trials, each beginning with a fresh mixture of A and B.
Numerical data are provided in the table below.
Trial | [A]₀ (mol L⁻¹) | [B]₀ (mol L⁻¹) | Initial Rate (mol L⁻¹ s⁻¹)
1 | 0.100 | 0.100 | 2.5 × 10⁻³
2 | 0.100 | 0.200 | 1.0 × 10⁻²
3 | 0.200 | 0.100 | 5.0 × 10⁻³
Use the data to analyze the kinetics of the reaction.
(a) Determine the order of the reaction with respect to reactant B. Show your reasoning quantitatively.
(b) Write the complete rate law, including the appropriate rate constant symbol.
(c) Propose a single elementary step that is consistent with the rate law you derived in part (b). Include correct stoichiometric coefficients.