Specific Rate Constant
What is Specific Rate Constant?
The specific rate constant (k) is the proportionality constant in the rate law expression for a chemical reaction (rate = k[A]ᵐ[B]ⁿ), with units that depend on the overall order of the reaction (e.g., s⁻¹ for first-order, L mol⁻¹ s⁻¹ for second-order). It is independent of reactant concentrations but highly dependent on temperature, described by the Arrhenius equation: k = Ae^(−Ea/RT). A larger k indicates a faster reaction at a given set of conditions.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
The specific rate constant (k) is the proportionality constant in the rate law expression for a chemical reaction (rate = k[A]ᵐ[B]ⁿ), with units that depend on the overall order of the reaction (e.g., s⁻¹ for first-order, L mol⁻¹ s⁻¹ for second-order). It is independent of reactant concentrations but highly dependent on temperature, described by the Arrhenius equation: k = Ae^(−Ea/RT). A larger k indicates a faster reaction at a given set of conditions.