Rate Law

Definition

The rate law is an equation that relates the reaction rate with concentrations or pressures of reactants and constant parameters.

Related terms

Rate Equation: This is the mathematical representation of a rate law, showing the relationship between reaction rate and concentration of reactants. It’s like specific instructions in our cookie recipe – e.g., “Mix 2 cups flour with 1 cup sugar”.

Rate-Determining Step:

In multi-step reactions, this is slowest step that determines overall reaction speed. It’s like waiting for dough to chill in fridge – no matter how fast we mix ingredients, we can’t proceed until dough has chilled.

Integrated Rate Law:

This formulates relation between concentration of reactants and time; it helps predict amounts at any given point during reaction. It’s like knowing exactly when our cookies will be perfectly baked based on oven temperature and initial dough amount.