Question

2. What conclusions can be drawn about the effect of a trace of Cu(NO3)2 on the rate of the reaction? What effect does it have on the rate law?

Answer 1

ANSWER:

The Cu(NO₃)₂ acts as a catalyst of the reaction. A trace of Cu(NO₃)₂ decreases the reaction time and increase the reaction rate, this means that reaction is completed in less time than when Cu(NO₃)₂ is not present.

Remember that a catalyst decrease the activation energy of any reaction causing that reaction would be completed in less time and with a great rate.

When a catalyst is added, the reaction law of this reaction changes to:

S205 +21 +250 + 1

• No Catalyst:

rate = k [S2034" [1-1"

• With Catalyst:

rate = k [S2034" [1-1" [Cu(NO3)2]”

The catalyst is included in the reaction law expression.