Mechanism of a hypothetical reaction X2 + Y2 2XY, is given below : (i) X2 X + X (fast) (ii) X + Y2 XY + Y (slow) (iii) X + Y XY (fast) The overall order of the reaction will be
- 2
- 0
- 1.5
- 1
Answer
(3) 1.5
Solution
The slowest step decides the rate:
Rate = k[X][Y2]
From the fast equilibrium (i): K = [X]2[X2]
⇒ [X] = K1/2[X2]1/2
⇒ Rate = kK1/2[X2]1/2[Y2]
∴ Overall order = 12 + 1 = 1.5
Answer: (3)