For a typical diacid$-$dialcohol$|$ reaction, both self$-$catalysis and external catalysis are

possible. Plot the following in MATLAB or python and attach your code.

a$.$ Select conditions $($i$.$e$.,$ give values for the kinetic constants and initial

concentrations$)$ for which the self$-$catalysis and external catalysis reaction

rates are equal at $90\%$ conversion of the acid. Clearly state your

assumptions.

b$.$ Plot the acid$/$alcohol concentration as a function of time on plots of $\frac{1}{[A{]}^2}$

and $1/$ A for conversions from $0$ to $99\%.$ How long does it take to reach

$99\%$ conversion? Explain the behavior you observe $-$ e$.$g$.,$ which

mechanism is more important in which regimes?

c$.$ If no external acid catalyst was added $($all else remaining the same$),$ how

much longer would it take to reach $99\%$ conversion? Repeat the plots

from above and explain the differences.

d$.$ For the situations in $b$ and $c,$ plot the number and weight average degrees

of polymerization vs time. Explain your observations.