1. What is Rate Constant of Second Order Reaction?

Definition: The rate constant for a second order reaction is defined as the average rate of the reaction per concentration of the reactant having power raised to 2.

Purpose: It helps chemists and chemical engineers determine the speed of chemical reactions where the rate depends on the square of the reactant concentration.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( k_2 \) — Rate constant for second order reaction (m³/(mol·s))
• \( r \) — Reaction rate (mol/(m³·s))
• \( C_A \) — Concentration of Reactant A (mol/m³)

Explanation: The reaction rate is divided by the square of the reactant concentration to determine the rate constant.

3. Importance of Rate Constant Calculation

Details: Knowing the rate constant is essential for reaction engineering, reactor design, and predicting reaction behavior under different conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the reaction rate in mol/(m³·s) and reactant concentration in mol/m³. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a second order reaction?
A: A reaction where the rate is proportional to the square of the concentration of one reactant or to the product of concentrations of two reactants.

Q2: What are typical units for second order rate constants?
A: The units are typically m³/(mol·s) in SI units or L/(mol·s) in more common laboratory units.

Q3: How does temperature affect the rate constant?
A: Rate constants generally increase with temperature according to the Arrhenius equation.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for reversible reactions?
A: No, this is specifically for irreversible second order reactions with equal reactant concentrations.

Q5: What if I have different reactant concentrations?
A: You would need a different formula that accounts for the different initial concentrations.