Deriving the Rate Law for a Mechanism with a Fast Initial Step

Consider the following hypothetical reaction:

2 P + Q → 2 R + S

The following mechanism is proposed for this reaction:

P + P -->T (fast)

Q + T --> R + U (slow)

U --> R + S (fast)

Substances T and U are unstable intermediates. What rate law is predicted by this mechanism?

A) Rate = k[P][Q]2

B) Rate = k[P]2

C) Rate = k[U]

D) Rate = k[P]2[Q]

E) Rate = k[P][Q]

Answer rating: 100% (QA)

Question Solution The mechanism steps for the reactions are given below whe... View the full answer