For the rate law expression rate=k[A][B]^2, what happens to the rate if the concentration of B is increased by a factor of two ?

1 Answer
May 16, 2018

Let's find out...


Given the rate law

#r_1(t) = k[A][B]^2#,

doubling the concentration of #B# results in a new rate of...

#r_2(t) = k[A] (2[B])^2#

#= 4 cdot k[A][B]^2#

And since #r_1(t) = k[A][B]^2#,

#r_2(t) = 4 cdot r_1(t)#

Thus, the rate quadruples. What is the order with respect to reactant #B#?