Formula Used:
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Definition: This calculator determines the rate constant (k₃) for the third parallel reaction in a set of three parallel reactions from reactant A to product D.
Purpose: It helps chemists and chemical engineers analyze reaction kinetics in systems with multiple parallel reactions.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates k₃ by accounting for the overall decay of reactant A and subtracting the contributions from the other two parallel reactions.
Details: Accurate determination of rate constants is crucial for understanding reaction mechanisms, predicting reaction rates, and designing chemical reactors.
Tips: Enter all required parameters with correct units. Time and concentrations must be positive values. Rate constants k₁ and k₂ must be non-negative.
Q1: What are parallel reactions?
A: Parallel reactions occur when a reactant can form different products through different reaction pathways simultaneously.
Q2: How do I measure the concentrations?
A: Concentrations can be measured using analytical techniques like spectroscopy, chromatography, or titration at different time intervals.
Q3: What if I get a negative value for k₃?
A: A negative value suggests either measurement errors in concentrations/time or that your k₁ + k₂ values are too large for the observed decay.
Q4: Can this be used for more than three parallel reactions?
A: No, this formula is specifically for systems with exactly three parallel first-order reactions.
Q5: What units should I use?
A: Use consistent units - seconds for time, mol/m³ for concentrations, and 1/s for rate constants.